> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://hedera-0c6e0218-mintlify-bc559771.mintlify.site/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Start Here

> Start your Hedera journey here with a guided walkthrough of the network, development paths, account setup, and your first on-chain transaction.

Welcome to Hedera. This section walks you through everything you need to understand the network, choose the right development approach, and make your first transaction. Whether you're an Ethereum developer or new to web3 entirely, you'll find a path here.

## Your Journey

<Steps>
  <Step title="What is Hedera?">
    Understand what makes Hedera different — Hashgraph consensus, the Governing Council, and the services you can build on.

    [Read: What is Hedera? →](/learn/getting-started/what-is-hedera)
  </Step>

  <Step title="Why Build on Hedera?">
    See how Hedera compares to Ethereum and Solana on finality, fees, and governance — and what kinds of applications it's built for.

    [Read: Why Build on Hedera? →](/learn/getting-started/why-hedera)
  </Step>

  <Step title="Choose Your Path">
    Pick the development approach that fits your background: EVM/Solidity or Native SDK (JS/Java/Go).

    [Read: Choose Your Path →](/learn/getting-started/choose-your-path)
  </Step>

  <Step title="Set Up and Build">
    Create your testnet account, fund it, and run your first transaction.

    [Create Testnet Account →](/learn/getting-started/create-portal-account)
  </Step>
</Steps>