Learn Ink - 10 Code Examples & CST Typing Practice Test
Ink! is a Rust-based eDSL (embedded domain-specific language) for writing smart contracts on the Substrate blockchain framework. It emphasizes safety, efficiency, and tight integration with Polkadot and Substrate ecosystems.
Learn INK with Real Code Examples
Updated Nov 25, 2025
Learning Path
Learn Rust basics
Understand Substrate architecture
Write simple ink! contracts
Compile and deploy Wasm
Test, audit, and deploy production contracts
Skill Improvement Plan
Week 1: Rust syntax and ownership
Week 2: ink! storage & messages
Week 3: Events and cross-contract calls
Week 4: Unit testing & simulation
Week 5: Deploy real-world applications on Substrate
Interview Questions
Why choose ink! over Solidity?
Explain ink! storage macros
How are events emitted in ink!?
Describe cross-contract calls in ink!
How does ink! integrate with Substrate?
Cheat Sheet
#[ink(storage)] -> contract state struct
#[ink(event)] -> blockchain event
#[ink(message)] -> public function
Constructor via #[ink(constructor)]
Traits for cross-contract calls
Books
Mastering Substrate Development
Ink! Smart Contract Development
Building DeFi on Polkadot
Practical Wasm Smart Contracts
Rust for Blockchain Developers
Tutorials
Write your first ink! contract
PSP22 token example
NFT contract using PSP34
Cross-contract interaction tutorial
Testing and deploying ink! contracts
Official Docs
https://paritytech.github.io/ink-docs/
https://github.com/paritytech/ink
Community Links
Ink! GitHub Discussions
Substrate Builders Program
Polkadot Developer Forums
Rust + Ink! Discord channels
YouTube tutorials and courses
Community Support
Ink! GitHub
Substrate Builders Program
Polkadot Developer Forums
Rust + Ink! Discord channels
YouTube tutorials and courses
Frequently Asked Questions about Ink
What is Ink?
Ink! is a Rust-based eDSL (embedded domain-specific language) for writing smart contracts on the Substrate blockchain framework. It emphasizes safety, efficiency, and tight integration with Polkadot and Substrate ecosystems.
What are the primary use cases for Ink?
High-security smart contracts. DeFi protocols on Substrate. NFT minting and marketplaces. On-chain governance modules. Wasm-based blockchain apps
What are the strengths of Ink?
Safe, type-checked contracts. High performance via Wasm. Strong ecosystem support in Polkadot. Auditable Rust code. Predictable gas and storage behavior
What are the limitations of Ink?
Limited to Substrate/Wasm chains. Smaller ecosystem than Solidity/EVM. Requires Rust proficiency. No EVM compatibility. Less tooling for testing vs EVM chains
How can I practice Ink typing speed?
CodeSpeedTest offers 10+ real Ink code examples for typing practice. You can measure your WPM, track accuracy, and improve your coding speed with guided exercises.