> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.shellprotocol.io/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.shellprotocol.io/deep-dive/important-concepts.md).

# Important concepts

To fully grasp Shell Protocol and its potential, one must understand several foundational concepts upon which the protocol is built. These key concepts are elaborated upon in the subsequent sections:

{% content-ref url="/pages/8pTEOsQRXO24Tf2XR5hY" %}
[Separating accounting logic & business logic](/deep-dive/important-concepts/separating-accounting-logic-and-business-logic.md)
{% endcontent-ref %}

{% content-ref url="/pages/lLAlZ5Gi5atLAhL3c4qZ" %}
[Ocean Primitives](/deep-dive/important-concepts/ocean-primitives.md)
{% endcontent-ref %}