most altcoin mistakes start before the chart goes red

A lot of people treat altcoin risk like it starts when price drops.

I think it usually starts earlier, when you buy something without knowing what would make you exit.

If the plan is only "hold until it pumps", every update becomes emotional. A partnership rumor feels bullish. A team delay becomes "still early". A big unlock becomes "priced in". The thesis keeps changing because there was never a real one.

The simplest filter I like is asking 3 things before buying.

What would prove this idea wrong?

What would make me sell even if price is up?

What would make me hold even if price is down?

If those answers are vague, the position is probably too big or too narrative driven.

Not saying every coin needs a 20 page thesis. But if you cannot name the exit conditions, you are not really investing. You are just waiting for the market to decide for you.