#TradingPairs101
A trading pair shows the two assets you’re exchanging in a trade — for example, BTC/USDT means you're trading Bitcoin against Tether. The first asset is what you’re buying or selling, and the second is what you’re using to pay. On CEXs, common pairs include crypto-to-stablecoin (ETH/USDT), crypto-to-crypto (ETH/BTC), and fiat-to-crypto (BTC/USD). On DEXs, pairs might involve tokens like ETH/DAI or SHIB/WETH. The availability of pairs depends on the exchange and asset popularity. Strong trading pairs typically have higher liquidity and tighter spreads, making trades more efficient. Understanding pairs helps you navigate markets better, avoid unnecessary conversions, and choose the most cost-effective route when entering or exiting a position.