How I Use TradingView to Plan Every Trade: A Practical, Real-World Walkthrough

Most trading articles talk about tools, indicators, and features like they exist in a vacuum. But TradingView only becomes valuable when you use it inside a routine - something you can repeat day after day without thinking.

This is the routine I personally follow. It’s simple, it’s clean, and it keeps me from taking trades just because I feel like I “should be trading.”

If you want to follow along with the exact layout I’m using, this is the link I started with:

Step 1: My Morning Chart Prep (5–7 minutes)

Before I even look for a setup, I take a few minutes to see what the market actually did.
Not what I think it’s going to do.
Not what Twitter is screaming.

Just price.

Here’s what I check first:

• Yesterday’s high, low, and close

These three levels tell me where most traders are anchored emotionally.

• Pre-market structure (for futures and stocks)

A quick scan of the overnight session shows whether the market is trending, ranging, or coiled up.

• A higher timeframe bias (15 min, 1 hr, daily)

I want a simple answer to a simple question:
“Is the market trending or chopping?”

I mark these levels with horizontal lines.
Nothing fancy.
TradingView makes it easy to color-code them so I don’t have to guess which is which.

Step 2: Chart Layout I Use Every Day

My setup is boring—in a good way.
The more predictable my workspace is, the calmer I trade.

My screen usually has:

• Main chart: 5-minute

This is where I see the structure develop.

• Secondary chart: 1-minute

Only for entries.
I don’t use the 1-minute to predict anything. I just fine-tune risk.

• Third chart: 1-hour or daily

This keeps the bigger picture in view so I don't get tunnel vision.

TradingView’s layout tool lets me lock this in so it loads exactly the same every morning.
It sounds small, but removing friction helps you avoid emotional trades.

Step 3: Indicators I Actually Rely On

I’m minimalistic.
If a trader has 12 indicators on their screen, they’re not trading—they’re decorating.

Here are the only tools that stay on my chart:

1. Volume Profile (session or fixed range)

This is the backbone of my prep.
It shows where price actually traded instead of where it simply passed through.

2. 20 and 50 EMA

Not because they tell me what to do, but because they give me structure:

• Trend continuation setups

• Pullbacks

• Mean reversion moments

3. VWAP (for intraday trading)

This is the “fair value” anchor institutions lean on.

I’m not married to indicators, but these three help keep me disciplined.

Step 4: How I Find Trade Setups (The Actual Process)

Here's the part everyone asks for:
“Okay, but how do you actually find trades?”

My routine looks like this:

1. Identify the dominant trend

If the 5-minute structure is climbing—higher highs, higher lows—I only look for longs.
Simple rule, but it removed half my losses.

2. Wait for price to return to a high-volume area

This is where real trades happen.
Low-volume “air pockets” often get rejected.

3. Look for a reaction

I don’t blindly buy or sell levels.
I wait for the market to respond—either a strong candle, a wick rejection, or a shift in the 1-minute structure.

4. Enter using the 1-minute chart

This is where TradingView shines for me.
Clean, fast, no clutter.

I size the position so the stop fits comfortably under the structure—not under the “line.”

Step 5: Alerts (The Part That Saves Me Hours)

People underestimate how powerful TradingView alerts are.
This is where the value really kicks in.

I set alerts for:

• A retest of my levels

• Price touching a high-volume node

• Breakout confirmation

• EMA pullbacks

Instead of babysitting charts all day, I let TradingView notify me when something is actually happening.
This alone made my trading less stressful and more consistent.

(Set alerts → close platform → get notified when the market comes to you.)

Step 6: Reviewing the Trade (10–20 seconds)

My end-of-day routine is short but important:

• Screenshot the setup

• Mark the entry / exit

• Add one sentence about what I could’ve done better

TradingView’s built-in screenshot tool makes this easy.

That’s it.
No long journal entries I’ll never read again.

Why This Routine Works

It cuts out noise.
It keeps you from chasing random moves.
And it turns TradingView into a daily workflow instead of a confusing bundle of features.

If you want to build a similar setup, you can start the same way I did:

Unlock Total Control: Why Tradeify’s New Select Plan Is the Game-Changer Traders Have Been Waiting For

The prop-trading world just got a major upgrade—and if you’re a trader who values flexibility, speed, and transparency, Tradeify’s brand-new Select Plan is about to become your secret weapon.

Launched only hours ago, the Select Plan introduces a funding model built around one core idea: put the trader in full control. From how you get funded to how you get paid, Select lets you shape your own path.

What Is the Select Plan?

At its core, the Select Plan simplifies the journey to becoming a funded trader.
It works in two simple steps:

Step 1: Pass the evaluation

No gimmicks. No unnecessary hurdles.

Step 2: Choose your funded payout path

After passing, you pick the model that fits the way you trade—Daily Payouts or 5-Day Payouts.

This “choose-your-own-funding” approach makes Select the most adaptable and trader-friendly plan Tradeify has ever released.

Your Two Funding Paths

Once you pass the evaluation, you unlock two distinct options—each with its own benefits depending on your style, strategy, and risk tolerance.

1. Select Daily — Fastest Payouts + Daily Withdrawals

Perfect for traders who want consistent access to profits and tighter risk controls.

Features:

• DLL enabled

• Daily withdrawals

• Controlled risk

• End-of-day (EOD) drawdown

This is one of the only daily-payout models in the industry that still offers full EOD drawdown—a huge advantage for active traders.

2. Select Flex — Maximum Freedom + Bigger Payout Caps

Ideal for traders who hate restrictions and want more scaling potential.

Features:

• No DLL

• No consistency rules

• Bigger payout caps

• End-of-day drawdown

Whether you’re a swing trader or someone who needs breathing room, Flex is built to let you trade your way.

Why Select Is Tradeify’s Most Flexible Plan Yet

Tradeify didn’t just tweak a few features—they rethought the entire funding experience. Here’s what sets Select apart:

• Daily payout option (with the fastest 4-day window to your first payout)

• No consistency requirements in funded stages

• Unlimited SIM → Live cycling (Sim Cap removed)

• Go Live after just 5 payouts

• Up to 5 Live accounts

• Only EOD drawdown across the whole plan

• 90/10 live split for traders

This combination doesn’t exist anywhere else in the funded trading space.

Select = Total Control

The Select Plan is built for traders who want clarity, freedom, and flexibility.

• One evaluation

• Two funded paths

• Zero confusion

Whether you want rapid payouts or maximum trading flexibility, Select puts the decision in your hands—not the firm’s.

Final Thoughts: The Future of Funded Trading Starts Here

Tradeify’s Select Plan isn’t just another funding model—it’s a shift toward trader-first design.
If you’ve been waiting for a program that adapts to you, not the other way around, Select is exactly what you’ve been looking for.

Everything You Need to Know About Apex Trader Funding: Latest Rules and Payout Policies (Updated 2025)

Apex Trader Funding has become a popular choice for aspiring prop traders looking to access funded accounts without the high risks of personal capital. If you're researching Apex Trader Funding rules, payout structures, or how to get started, this guide breaks down the latest updates from Apex 3.0. Whether you're a beginner evaluating prop firms or an experienced trader optimizing your strategy, understanding these policies can help you trade more effectively and sustainably. We'll cover payout requirements, trading rules, risk management, and more—based on the most current information as of late 2024 and into 2025.

As someone who's explored various prop trading options, I find Apex's flexible approach particularly helpful for traders aiming for long-term success. If you're considering joining, using an affiliate code like BOB during signup can be a straightforward way to get started while supporting independent reviews like this one.

Apex Trader Funding Payout Structure: Key Changes in Apex 3.0

One of the biggest updates in Apex 3.0 is the streamlined payout process, designed to give traders more flexibility and faster access to earnings. Gone are the rigid payout windows—now, you can request payouts anytime once you meet the criteria.

New Payout Requirements

To qualify for a payout, you need to:

• Complete at least 8 trading days, with at least 5 of those days showing a profit of $50 or more.

• Meet the safety net threshold, which is your account's drawdown limit plus an additional $100 (more on this below).

These rules apply starting November 1, 2024, for eligible traders. This shift emphasizes consistent performance over time-bound requests, making it easier for active traders to withdraw profits regularly.

Processing and Timeline

• Review and Approval: Payout requests are typically reviewed and approved within 2 business days.

• Fund Transfer: Expect funds to hit your account in 3-4 business days after approval. For international traders, you'll get an email invitation to set up payments via Plane.

• Bank Reflection Time: It may take 3-7 additional business days for funds to appear, depending on your bank.

For example, if you hit the requirements on November 1, you could request immediately, get approved by November 5, and see funds by mid-November. This efficiency is a game-changer for traders who prefer frequent withdrawals.

If you're new to Apex and want to test these features, starting with an affiliate code like BOB can help you access their platform smoothly. Click here to sign up with code BOB.

The 30% Consistency Rule (Windfall Protection)

Apex's 30% Consistency Rule prevents over-reliance on a single big win, promoting steady growth. At payout time, no single trading day can account for more than 30% of your total profit since your last payout (or from the start for your first one).

How to Calculate It

Use this simple formula:

Highest Profit Day ÷ 0.3 = Minimum Total Profit Required

Example: On a $50k account, if your best day netted $1,500, you'd need at least $5,000 in total profits ($1,500 ÷ 0.3) to request a payout. If you're short, keep trading until you hit that mark.

This rule resets after each approved payout and doesn't apply after your sixth payout or if you're on a Live Prop account. It's a smart way to build discipline, especially for newer traders.

Safety Net for the First Three Payouts

For your first three payouts, you must maintain a safety net to protect against drawdowns. The safety net is your account's drawdown limit + $100.

Key Details

• Applies to: First three payouts only; after that, it's lifted.

• Minimum Payout: $500, even if it dips slightly into the safety net (up to $500 encroachment allowed).

• Higher Payouts: To withdraw more than $500, your balance must exceed the safety net by the extra amount.

Example Table for Safety Net Calculation:

For a $50k account at $52,600 balance, you can withdraw $500 (leaving $52,100). For $1,200, you'd need at least $53,300 to start.

This buffer ensures sustainable trading, and once you're past the first three, you gain more freedom.

Reaching 100% Payout Eligibility

Apex now bases full payouts on payout count, not time, allowing faster access.

• From the Sixth Payout: Withdraw 100% of profits.

• Fast Track: With an 8-day cycle, hit this in ~48 trading days (about 2 months).

• Live Prop Accounts: Withdraw earlier if transferred.

• Existing traders at 100% or in month 3 aren't affected.

No maximums after the fifth payout, as long as you maintain the minimum balance post-withdrawal.

Trading Requirements and Rules

Apex emphasizes real-world, consistent strategies. Here's a breakdown:

Genuine Strategy and Prohibitions

• Use a consistent, live-market viable strategy.

• No Manipulation: Avoid HFT exploits, sharing logins, or group schemes (leads to bans and forfeitures).

• One-Direction Rule: Hold positions in only one direction (long or short); no hedging on the same or correlated instruments.

Dollar Cost Averaging (DCA)

DCA is fully allowed with no restrictions on entry points or contract sizes, as long as it maintains responsible risk-reward and doesn't violate other rules (e.g., 30% limits).

Contract Size Consistency and Scaling

• Consistency: Adjust sizes based on market conditions, but avoid erratic changes.

• Scaling Rule: Trade only half your max contracts until you hit the trailing threshold (EOD balance > initial + drawdown + $100). Then, unlock full limits.

  • Penalty for Violation: Single slip? Close excess and reset to prior EOD; need 8 more days. Repeated? Account closure.

Example: $50k PA (max 10 contracts) starts at 5 max. Hit $52,600 EOD? Trade 10 from next session.

Risk Management

• 5:1 Risk-Reward Ratio: Max risk 5x reward (e.g., 10-tick target = max 50-tick stop).

• 30% Negative P&L Rule (MAE): Open trades can't exceed 30% of profit balance in losses.

  • For low-profit accounts: Based on 30% of trailing threshold (e.g., $750 on $50k).

  • After doubling safety net: Increases to 50%.

  • Minor breaches? Correct quickly—no auto penalty. Repeated? Warnings or suspension.

Special Notes:

• Not a daily loss cap; manage continuously.

• For new accounts, use original trailing threshold for calculations.

News Trading and Flipping

• News Trading: Allowed, but no opposing positions on the same event.

• Flipping: Quick in-day trades count toward days if they hit $50+ profit on 5+ days.

Payout Methods and Procedures

U.S. vs. Non-U.S. Traders

• U.S.: ACH direct deposit (use correct routing number).

• Non-U.S.: Via Plane; get an email invite post-approval to link your bank.

Setup in your dashboard: Select "Direct Deposit" for U.S. or "International" for others. Match bank country to residency.

Minimum and Maximum Payouts (First Five)

Table of Limits:

Multiple Accounts

Each account is independent—maximize by withdrawing from all. E.g., 10x $50k = $20,000 every 8 days.

Request Process

1. Log in to dashboard.

2. Click "Payout Request."

3. Follow prompts and submit.

4. Await approval email (check spam).

Tax Info

• U.S.: 1099-NEC by Jan 31; report as contractor income.

• Non-U.S.: Handle per your country's laws; no forms from Apex. Consult a tax advisor—Apex doesn't provide advice.

Probation and Enforcement

If on probation, check your dashboard for details and comply to restore status. Apex enforces rules fairly, with transparency via PA Charts. Journal trades to verify compliance.

Apex's updates foster responsible trading, and many find it rewarding. If this guide helps and you're ready to dive in, use affiliate code BOB to sign up and start applying these rules.

For the latest from Apex, always check their official site, as policies can evolve. This overview aims to make the info accessible—happy trading!

Technical Analysis vs. Fundamental Analysis: Which One Matters More for Stocks?

When it comes to analyzing stocks, traders and investors typically rely on two main strategies: technical analysis and fundamental analysis. Each approach offers unique insights, but which one is more important? Or is combining both the key to success? Let’s dive into the debate.

What is Technical Analysis?

Technical analysis focuses on price movements, trends, and trading volume to predict future stock performance. It relies on charts, indicators, and patterns rather than evaluating the company’s financials or economic conditions.

Key Elements of Technical Analysis:

• Charts & Trends: Traders analyze candlestick patterns, moving averages, and support/resistance levels.

• Indicators: Popular tools include RSI (Relative Strength Index), MACD (Moving Average Convergence Divergence), and Bollinger Bands.

• Trading Volume: High volume often confirms trends or signals potential reversals.

Who Uses Technical Analysis?

Short-term traders, day traders, and swing traders benefit the most from technical analysis since it helps identify entry and exit points.

What is Fundamental Analysis?

Fundamental analysis, on the other hand, examines the intrinsic value of a stock by looking at a company’s financial health, industry position, and economic factors.

Key Elements of Fundamental Analysis:

• Financial Statements: Earnings reports, revenue, profit margins, and debt levels provide insights into a company’s stability.

• Economic & Industry Trends: Macroeconomic factors, such as inflation or interest rates, affect a company’s growth potential.

• Competitive Advantage: Brand strength, market share, and innovation determine long-term success.

Who Uses Fundamental Analysis?

Long-term investors, value investors, and Warren Buffett-style stock pickers prefer fundamental analysis to assess a stock’s true worth.

Technical vs. Fundamental Analysis: Which One is More Important?

The importance of each approach depends on your trading style and goals:

• If you’re a short-term trader, technical analysis is crucial for timing trades and spotting patterns.

• If you’re a long-term investor, fundamental analysis helps you build a solid portfolio based on strong companies.

• If you’re a hybrid trader, using both methods can provide a well-rounded strategy.

Why Combining Both Can Be Powerful

Many successful traders and investors integrate both technical and fundamental analysis to make informed decisions:

• Confirming Trades: Use fundamentals to identify promising stocks and technicals to find the best entry points.

• Minimizing Risk: Fundamentals help assess long-term potential, while technicals manage short-term risks.

• Adapting to Market Conditions: Market sentiment and economic shifts can impact stock prices beyond charts alone.

Final Thoughts

So, which is better—technical or fundamental analysis? The answer depends on your goals, time horizon, and risk tolerance. While technical analysis helps traders profit from short-term movements, fundamental analysis ensures long-term stability and growth. Mastering both can give you an edge in the stock market, helping you make smarter investment decisions.

Which strategy do you prefer? Let us know in the comments!

Everything You Need to Know About Tradeify: A Comprehensive Guide

Tradeify is a futures proprietary trading firm that offers traders the opportunity to trade simulated funds and earn payouts based on their performance. The firm provides three main account types: the Advanced Plan, the Growth Plan, and the Straight to Sim Plan. Each plan has its own unique rules, payout structures, and risk management parameters. This article will break down everything you need to know about Tradeify, focusing on the rules and policies surrounding these three account types.

1. Overview of Tradeify’s Account Types

Tradeify offers three primary account types, each designed to cater to different trading styles and risk preferences:

1. Advanced Plan: Features a real-time intraday trailing drawdown, which adjusts continuously throughout the trading day. This plan is ideal for traders who prefer a cheaper option as it does offer the cheapest costs out of all three plans.

2. Growth Plan: Utilizes an end-of-day trailing drawdown, which adjusts only at the end of the trading day. This plan offers more flexibility during the trading day, making it suitable for traders who hold positions longer.

3. Straight to Sim Plan: Also utilizes an end-of-day trailing drawdown. Allows traders to skip the challenge phase and start trading simulated funds immediately. This plan is perfect for experienced traders who want to begin earning payouts quickly.

2. Payout Policies

General Payout Guidelines

• Traders receive 90% of any profits after receiving 100% of their first $15k.

• Each account is treated independently, meaning you can withdraw from multiple accounts simultaneously, provided you meet the payout requirements for each.

• Payout requests cannot be edited or canceled once submitted.

Payout Requirements

To qualify for a payout, your account must meet the following criteria:

• Consistency Rule:

  • Advanced and Growth accounts must follow a 35% Consistency Rule.

  • Straight to Sim accounts must follow a 20% Consistency Rule.

  • This rule ensures that no single day’s profit exceeds the specified percentage of your total profits.

• Minimum Days Traded:

  • 10 Trading Days are required for the first withdrawal and between each subsequent payout request.

  • At least 5 of these days must show a profit greater than:

    • $150 for 50k accounts

    • $200 for 100k accounts

    • $250 for 150k accounts

• Account Balance Needed:

  • You must reach and maintain at least $100 in profit over the Trailing Max Drawdown limit.

  • This balance must be maintained until the payout request is approved.

Payout Windows

Payouts are processed three times per month during the following windows:

• 1st~4th

• 11th~14th

• 21st~24th

Payout requests must be submitted during these windows, and payments are issued within 24 hours of approval.

3. Account-Specific Rules and Policies

Advanced Plan

• Real-Time Intraday Trailing Drawdown: Adjusts continuously throughout the trading day.

• Activation Fee: $125 (one-time fee).

• Profit Target:

  • $3,000 for 50k accounts

  • $6,000 for 100k accounts

  • $9,000 for 150k accounts

• Position Size:

  • 5 contracts (50 micros) for 50k accounts

  • 10 contracts (100 micros) for 100k accounts

  • 15 contracts (150 micros) for 150k accounts

Growth Plan

• End-of-Day Trailing Drawdown: Adjusts only at the end of the trading day.

• No Activation Fee.

• Profit Target:

  • $3,000 for 50k accounts

  • $6,000 for 100k accounts

  • $9,000 for 150k accounts

• Daily Loss Limit (Soft Breach):

  • $1,250 for 50k accounts

  • $2,500 for 100k accounts

  • $3,750 for 150k accounts

Straight to Sim Plan

• No Challenge Phase: Traders can start trading simulated funds immediately.

• Consistency Rule: 20%.

• Daily Loss Limit (Soft Breach):

  • None for 25k accounts

  • $1,250 for 50k accounts

  • $2,500 for 100k accounts

  • $3,750 for 150k accounts

• Payout Profit Goals:

  • First payout

    • $1,500 for 25k accounts

    • $3,000 for 50k accounts

    • $6,000 for 100k accounts

    • $9,000 for 150k accounts

  • Second payout

    • $1,000 for 25k accounts

    • $2,000 for 50k accounts

    • $3,000 for 100k accounts

    • $4,500 for 150k accounts

  • Third payout (and beyond)

    • $1,000 for 25k accounts

    • $2,000 for 50k accounts

    • $2,500 for 100k accounts

    • $3,000 for 150k accounts

4. Risk Management and Drawdowns

Trailing Max Drawdown

• Advanced Plan: Uses a real-time intraday trailing drawdown.

• Growth Plan: Uses an end-of-day trailing drawdown.

• Straight to Sim Plan: Also uses an end-of-day trailing drawdown.

Drawdown Lock

• Drawdowns lock when profits exceed the drawdown limit by $100.

• For example, in a 50k Advanced account with a $2,000 drawdown, the drawdown locks at $50,100 (trailing drawdown limit + $100). Otherwise, once the balance reaches $52,100.

5. Additional Rules and Policies

Consistency Rule

• The Consistency Rule ensures that traders maintain steady performance by limiting the percentage of total profits that can come from a single day.

• Advanced/Growth Accounts: 35% Consistency Rule.

• Straight to Sim Accounts: 20% Consistency Rule.

Daily Loss Limit (DLL)

• Applies to Growth and Straight to Sim accounts.

• DLL is removed once the account reaches a certain profit level:

  • 50k accounts: $3,000 profit

  • 100k accounts: $6,000 profit

  • 150k accounts: $9,000 profit

Hedging and Trading Micros/Minis

• Hedging strategies and simultaneous trading of mini and micro contracts are prohibited.

• Traders must trade independently and avoid strategies that obscure performance.

Bots and Algorithmic Trading

• Bots and algorithms are allowed if:

  • The trader owns the bot/algorithm exclusively.

  • The bot is not used across multiple firms.

  • High-frequency trading (HFT) bots are prohibited.

6. Transition to Live Funded Accounts

Tradeify offers the opportunity to transition from Simulated Funded Accounts to Live Funded Accounts after achieving consistent performance. Key points include:

• Traders can be moved to a Live Funded Account after completing 4 payouts from the same Simulated Funded Account.

• A portion of the Simulated Funded Account balance is carried forward to the Live Funded Account, capped at 10% of the account size or the remaining profit balance of sim account - whichever is smaller.

• Live Funded Accounts offer daily payouts and a clear path to scaling through Merit Accounts.

7. Merit Accounts

Merit Accounts are designed to reward consistent and profitable traders by providing additional funded accounts. Key features include:

• Traders earn Merit Accounts by reaching $15,000 in profit across their Live Funded Accounts.

• Each Merit Account comes with its own risk parameters and profit targets.

• Traders can earn up to 5 Live Funded Accounts, including Merit Accounts.

8. Conclusion

Tradeify offers a structured and transparent environment for traders to grow their skills and earn payouts. Whether you prefer the strict risk management of the Advanced Plan, the flexibility of the Growth Plan, or the quick start of the Straight to Sim Plan, Tradeify provides a pathway to success. By adhering to the rules and maintaining consistent performance, traders can unlock the potential of Live Funded Accounts and Merit Accounts, scaling their trading capital and maximizing their earnings.

10 Good Habits to Implement to Become a Better Trader

Success in trading isn’t just about strategy—it’s about discipline, consistency, and the right habits. The best traders aren’t necessarily the ones who make the biggest trades but the ones who develop habits that keep them in the game long-term. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced trader, implementing these ten habits can help you improve your decision-making, manage risk, and maximize profits.

1. Follow a Trading Plan

A solid trading plan acts as your roadmap. It should outline your strategy, risk tolerance, entry and exit points, and overall goals. Following a structured plan keeps emotions in check and prevents impulsive decisions that could lead to losses. A good trading plan should also be flexible enough to adapt to market changes while still maintaining a disciplined approach. Regularly reviewing and updating your plan ensures it stays relevant and effective in different market conditions.

2. Practice Risk Management

Never risk more than you can afford to lose. A common rule is the 1-2% risk rule, meaning you should only risk 1-2% of your account on a single trade. Stop-loss orders and proper position sizing are essential tools for managing risk effectively. Additionally, diversification can help mitigate risks by spreading investments across multiple assets instead of focusing on a single trade. Proper risk management protects your capital and allows you to stay in the market for the long run.

3. Maintain a Trading Journal

A trading journal helps you track your trades, analyze your successes and mistakes, and refine your strategy. By reviewing past trades, you can identify patterns, strengths, and weaknesses to improve future performance. Documenting your emotions, market conditions, and the reasoning behind each trade can provide valuable insights into your decision-making process. Over time, a well-maintained trading journal will serve as a powerful learning tool that helps you refine your approach and eliminate costly mistakes.

4. Stay Disciplined and Avoid Overtrading

Emotional trading leads to costly mistakes. Stick to your trading plan and avoid revenge trading or overtrading just because the market is moving. Patience and discipline separate profitable traders from those who consistently lose. Overtrading often stems from greed or fear, which can lead to impulsive decisions and unnecessary risks. Setting daily or weekly trading limits can help maintain discipline and prevent excessive trading.

5. Continuously Educate Yourself

Markets evolve, and staying informed is crucial. Follow market news, read trading books, take courses, and learn from successful traders. The more knowledge you acquire, the better equipped you’ll be to adapt to changing market conditions. Subscribing to financial news outlets, joining trading communities, and attending webinars can provide fresh insights and strategies. Additionally, studying different market indicators and economic reports can help you make more informed trading decisions.

6. Develop a Routine and Stick to It

Having a structured daily routine keeps you focused and prevents burnout. Set a specific time to analyze the markets, execute trades, and review performance. Consistency breeds success. A well-organized routine helps in maintaining a balanced lifestyle and prevents emotional fatigue. Creating a checklist for each trading session can ensure that you stay on track and approach the markets with a clear mindset.

7. Use Proper Risk-to-Reward Ratios

A good risk-to-reward ratio helps ensure long-term profitability. A common approach is aiming for at least a 1:2 or 1:3 risk-to-reward ratio, meaning you aim to gain twice or three times what you’re risking per trade. This strategy helps maintain a favorable profit-to-loss balance and ensures that even if some trades result in losses, the profitable trades will outweigh them. Traders who consistently follow a strong risk-to-reward strategy are more likely to achieve sustainable success.

8. Stay Emotionally Detached from Trades

Trading is a game of probabilities—sometimes, even the best setups fail. Accept losses as part of the process and move on. Letting emotions drive your decisions leads to poor risk management and bad trades. Developing a mindset that treats trading as a business rather than a game of luck is crucial. Practicing mindfulness and stress management techniques can help traders maintain emotional stability and avoid making impulsive decisions.

9. Backtest and Optimize Your Strategy

Before going live with a strategy, test it on historical data to see how it performs. Backtesting helps refine your approach and gives you confidence in your trading decisions. This process allows traders to identify strengths and weaknesses in their strategies before risking real capital. Many trading platforms offer backtesting tools that can simulate market conditions and provide performance statistics. Regular optimization of trading strategies ensures they remain effective in different market environments.

10. Take Breaks and Manage Stress

Trading can be mentally exhausting. Taking breaks prevents burnout and helps you maintain a clear mindset. Step away from the charts when needed, exercise, and ensure you’re well-rested to make the best decisions. Stress and fatigue can cloud judgment and lead to poor trading choices. Engaging in hobbies, spending time with family, and practicing relaxation techniques can contribute to a healthier trading mindset. A well-balanced lifestyle supports better decision-making and enhances overall trading performance.

Final Thoughts

Great traders aren’t born overnight; they are built through habits, discipline, and continuous improvement. Implementing these ten habits will help you become a more consistent, profitable, and confident trader over time. Stick to your plan, manage risk wisely, and never stop learning. By making these habits part of your daily trading routine, you’ll set yourself up for long-term success in the financial markets.

Best charting software: TradingView

Best Trading Journal:
Tradezella

Best Trading Scanner:
Trade IDEAS

BEST PROP FIRMS:
APEX TRADER FUNDING (ENTER BOB FOR BEST DISCOUNT)

Best Prop Firms:
MyFundedFutures (enter break for best discount)

bEST pROP firms W/ NO EVALUATION:
Tradeify

5 Ways to Actually Get Better at Trading (No Fluff)

Let’s be real—trading isn’t easy. If it were, everyone would be driving Lambos and sipping cocktails on a private island. But most traders struggle, not because they lack intelligence, but because they don’t focus on the right things.

If you’re tired of spinning your wheels and want real improvement, here are five things that will actually make a difference:

1. Stop Chasing Every Trade (Patience Pays)

One of the biggest killers of trading accounts is overtrading. You don’t need to take 50 trades a day to make money. In fact, the best traders sit on their hands more than they click their mouse.

Start treating your trades like sniper shots, not machine-gun fire. Pick your setups carefully, wait for the right confirmation, and stop forcing trades just because you’re bored.

👉 Pro Tip: If you’re trading just because “it looks like it’s moving,” you’re already in trouble. Stick to your plan or don’t trade at all.

2. Master One Strategy Before Adding More

Too many traders jump from one strategy to another every time they hit a losing streak. One day, it’s price action. The next day, it’s indicators. By Friday, they’re watching YouTube videos about some guy’s “secret trading method.”

Pick one strategy, master it, and only consider adding more once you’ve proven consistency. Otherwise, you’re just confusing yourself and setting yourself up for failure.

👉 Pro Tip: If you can’t explain your strategy in one sentence, it’s too complicated. Simplify it.

3. Treat Risk Management Like a Religion

Your number one job as a trader is not to make money—it’s to protect money. If you blow up your account, you’re out of the game. Period.

A lot of traders talk about risk management, but very few actually respect it. You should know exactly how much you’re risking per trade before you even enter. And if you’re risking more than 1-2% per trade? You’re gambling, not trading.

👉 Pro Tip: Ask yourself, “If I take 10 losses in a row, will I still be in the game?” If the answer is no, you’re risking too much.

4. Journal Everything (Seriously, Do It)

If you don’t track your trades, you have no idea what’s working and what’s not. It’s like trying to lose weight without tracking what you eat.

Write down every trade you take—entry, exit, reason for entering, emotions you felt, and what you learned. Over time, you’ll start to see patterns in your mistakes and strengths.

👉 Pro Tip: The best traders treat their journal like a playbook. Every trade is a lesson, so don’t just write numbers—write insights.

5. Control Your Emotions or the Market Will Do It for You

Let’s be honest—trading is an emotional rollercoaster. One minute you feel like a genius, the next you want to throw your laptop out the window.

The traders who win in the long run aren’t the ones who have zero emotions; they’re the ones who control them. Revenge trading, FOMO, and panic-selling will kill your account faster than a bad strategy ever will.

👉 Pro Tip: If you can’t step away from the charts without obsessing over every tick, you’re overexposed. Reduce your risk and get a life outside of trading.

Final Thoughts

Improving at trading isn’t about finding some magical strategy. It’s about discipline, patience, and risk management.The market doesn’t care how smart you are—it only rewards those who follow the rules.

So, stop looking for shortcuts, focus on the basics, and watch your trading improve.

Which of these five tips hit home for you the most? Let me know!

10 Rules Successful Day Traders Live By

Day trading can feel like a whirlwind of excitement and risk, especially if you're new to the stock market. But with the right mindset and strategies, you can navigate the ups and downs with confidence. In this guide, we’ll share 10 key rules that successful day traders swear by to help you get started on the right foot.

1. Start with a Solid Plan

Successful day traders know that planning is everything. Have a strategy in place before you even think about making a trade. Whether you're aiming to scalp small profits or swing for bigger moves, a clear plan will keep you focused and prevent impulsive decisions.

2. Use Stop-Loss Orders to Protect Your Capital

One of the golden rules of trading is to never risk more than you can afford to lose. A stop-loss order automatically sells a stock if it drops to a certain price, helping you minimize losses and protect your investments.

3. Trade with Money You Can Afford to Lose

This is crucial for new traders. Never risk money you need for bills or emergencies. Only trade with funds that won’t negatively impact your daily life if lost. This mindset helps you stay calm, even when the market takes a turn.

4. Stick to Your Risk-Reward Ratio

Risk management is key. A good rule of thumb is a risk-to-reward ratio of 1:3, meaning you're willing to risk $1 to make $3. Keeping this ratio in mind will help you evaluate potential trades more objectively and avoid emotional decisions.

5. Master Technical Analysis

Day traders rely heavily on technical analysis to make informed decisions. This involves studying price charts, patterns, and indicators to predict future market movements. Familiarize yourself with tools like moving averages, RSI, and MACD to improve your trading accuracy.

6. Avoid Overtrading

It’s tempting to get in on every stock moving up or down, but overtrading can lead to losses. Stick to your strategy and wait for the right setup. Being patient is often more rewarding than jumping in too quickly.

7. Embrace the Power of Paper Trading

Before putting real money on the line, consider paper trading — practicing with a demo account. This helps you get comfortable with the market without risking your capital. Once you’re confident, you can move on to live trading.

8. Keep Your Emotions in Check

Successful day traders know that emotions like fear and greed can cloud judgment. Always follow your plan and don’t let emotions drive your decisions. If you’re feeling frustrated or over-excited, it might be a good time to take a step back.

9. Stay Informed, But Don’t Get Overwhelmed

While it's important to keep up with market news, don’t get lost in the noise. Focus on key updates that directly affect your trades. Too much information can cause confusion and lead to poor decision-making.

10. Review and Learn from Every Trade

No matter how a trade turns out, take the time to review it. Keep a trading journal where you note down the trade setup, what went right, what went wrong, and what you can improve. This reflection helps you grow as a trader.

Bonus Tip: Stay Consistent and Be Patient

Success in day trading doesn’t happen overnight. The more consistent you are with following these rules, the better your chances of success. Over time, you’ll fine-tune your strategies and develop your unique trading style.

Day trading can be both exciting and daunting, but with the right approach, it’s possible to achieve consistent success. By following these 10 simple rules, you'll be on your way to becoming a more confident and successful trader.

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Best Trading Journal:
Tradezella

Best Trading Scanner:
Trade IDEAS

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APEX TRADER FUNDING (ENTER BOB FOR BEST DISCOUNT)

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