**Here's a simplified explanation of how to create a Bitcoin #transaction with an #OP_RETURN value using bitcoin-cli:**
**1. Access bitcoin-cli:**
- Ensure your Bitcoin Core wallet is fully synchronized.
- Open a terminal or command prompt and type `bitcoin-cli` to initiate interaction with the wallet.
**2. Gather details:**
- **Inputs:** List the #UTXOs (Unspent Transaction Outputs) you'll use as inputs for the transaction. Use `bitcoin-cli listunspent` to view available UTXOs.
- **Outputs:** Determine where you want to send the funds (Bitcoin addresses).
- **OP_RETURN data:** Decide on the data you wish to #embed within the OP_RETURN output (up to 80 bytes). Convert it into #hexadecimal format.
**3. Create the transaction:**
- Use the command `createrawtransaction` to craft the transaction structure:
`bitcoin-cli #createrawtransaction "[{\"txid\":\"
Replace placeholders with actual values.
**4. Fund the transaction:**
- Use `fundrawtransaction` to add appropriate transaction fees and complete inputs:
`bitcoin-cli #fundrawtransaction
**5. Sign the transaction:**
- Employ `signrawtransactionwithwallet` to sign the transaction with your wallet's private keys:
`bitcoin-cli #signrawtransactionwithwallet
**6. Broadcast the transaction:**
- Utilize `sendrawtransaction` to broadcast the signed transaction to the Bitcoin network:
`bitcoin-cli #sendrawtransaction
**Key points:**
- **OP_RETURN** permanently embeds data into the Bitcoin blockchain, but it's unspendable.
- **Ensure accurate hex data format** for the OP_RETURN output.
- **Double-check transaction details** before broadcasting to avoid irreversible errors.
- **Consider using testnet** for practice before working on the mainnet.
**Additional tips:**
- Explore Bitcoin developer resources for further guidance and examples.
- Familiarize yourself with Bitcoin transaction structure and terminology.
- Practice in a testnet environment to gain confidence before working with real funds. #plebchain #nostr #bitcoincore