Tokens VS. Markets VS. Pools

Most people don't quite understand what markets are, what pools are, or what the difference is between them. Here's a quick rundown on the difference between them:

1. Tokens:

Token creation is the first step of creating a tradable coin on Solana. On creation, tokens aren't tradable.

2. Markets:

After the token is created, a market can then be created for it. A market is basically a prerequisite step before a pool is created. You cannot provide liquidity / trade tokens before a market is created.

3. Liquidity Pools:

The final step after the market is created, is creating a liquidity pool. The liquidity pool allows people to buy and sell the coin.

Conclusion:

Tokens are only tradable after a pool gets created. Recently, platforms like Pump.fun and Moonshot provide trading liquidity for tokens right as they're created. Tokens like these are tradable as soon as they are created. Regular tokens that aren't created through a special platform like Pump.fun or Moonshot are only tradable after pool creation. The order of processes before a coin becomes tradable