A smart contract is a program hosted on a blockchain that automatically executes specified rules. When creating a token, the contract determines how the token operates: how many there will be, who manages it, whether it can be minted or burned, etc.

There are several popular networks for creating tokens: Ethereum (ERC), Binance Smart Chain (BNB, BEP-20 standard), Tron (TRC-20), and others. While they differ technically, the underlying token logic is generally the same.

During the creation phase, developers define the token name, ticker symbol (e.g., ABC), total supply, and determine what features will be available. Below are the key terms of use that are often included in smart contracts.

Renounce Ownership is a voluntary step where a developer relinquishes control of a contract. After this, no one can change the code or rules. This increases user trust, as the token becomes truly decentralized.
Mint (issuance of new tokens) is the ability to create additional tokens after launch. This can be temporary or permanent, depending on the token model. In some contracts, issuance is limited or disabled immediately after creation.

Burn (token burning) is the process of destroying a portion of the tokens. Burning reduces the total supply in circulation, which can increase the value of the remaining tokens.

Pause/Unpause (freezing) — a function that temporarily suspends token transactions. It is used in emergency situations, such as hacks, attacks, or code errors. This mechanism protects users and investors.

Blacklist/Whitelist — contracts can include lists of allowed or prohibited addresses. This is used for regulation, legal compliance, bot protection, or blocking fraudsters.

Fees/Tax (transaction tax) — some tokens charge a fee on each transaction. These funds can be distributed among developers, sent to the project fund, a liquidity pool, or burned.

Liquidity Lock/Vesting — investor protection mechanisms. For example, team tokens can be "frozen" for a certain period so they cannot be immediately sold. This reduces the risk of a "dump" and increases trust.
The token creation process typically looks like this: a network is selected, the token structure is determined, a smart contract with the required functions is written, the contract is placed on the blockchain, an audit is conducted (if the project is serious), and the code is published for transparency.
Such tokens are used in a wide variety of areas: gaming, DeFi, governance in decentralized organizations, marketing and loyalty, charity, and even simply as fan coins.
Creating a smart contract