Good due diligence is usually boring in the best possible way. It is a repeatable process for rejecting weak opportunities quickly so that the stronger ones get more attention.
Check the product surface
Can you explain what the protocol does in one sentence? If not, that is the first warning. Confused positioning often produces confused traction.
Check the chain and category fit
Some products belong on certain chains. When the chain choice and the protocol category line up, distribution is easier to understand. When they do not, you need a stronger reason to keep digging.
Check whether the current move has a plausible driver
Look for recent launches, integrations, category rotation, or market conditions that can explain why the protocol is surfacing now. If the move has no story at all, you may be staring at noise.
Check what would disqualify it
A proper checklist includes rejection criteria. Missing metadata, weak website quality, obviously stale surfaces, or traction that vanishes the moment you zoom out are all useful reasons to walk away.
