Options chain overview 

An options chain (sometimes called an options board) is the table that lists all available option contracts for a given underlying asset. It’s the foundation of options trading, showing you prices and key stats for each strike and expiration.

What it shows

• Calls and puts side by side, organized by strike price.
• Expirations grouped so you can switch between different maturities.
• Market data such as bid, ask, last trade, volume, and open interest.
• Greeks and implied volatility, if you choose to display them.

Why it matters

The chain is the primary workspace for discovering opportunities and managing trades. It lets you:

• Compare liquidity across strikes and expirations.
• Spot unusual activity in volume or open interest.
• Identify which options best fit your strategy (e.g., hedging, income, speculation).

The options chain is your entry point for navigating the market.