One has to follow some rules for day trading, especially when you are a newbie in this field. These rules/guidelines are very basic and are not binding (as exceptions are always bound to be there), but these definetly helps in making informed decisions needed for making a good investment. Basically these are guidelines and not rules.
1) Knowledge:
'Knowledge' wrto Day trading includes information about the basic trading procedures and tools, information about stocks you plan to trade (like company financials, reports and charts), knowing the latest in the stock markets, keeping track of events that affect stocks, etc. Day trading can become more difficult and risky in the absence of knowledge. As a rookie, do your homework; make a list of stocks which are on your wish list, keep yourself informed about the selected companies and general markets, scan a business newspaper and visit reliable financial websites on a regular basis.
2) You need to be Realistic for returns:
Being realistic about profits is important. As you gear up to trade, make sure that you don’t lose out on decent gains in the greed for more! Markets are tricky and it’s better to settle down for a smaller profit than ending up losing heavily. If required, you can always buy the same stock when it dips. Every small profitable trade will help boost your confidence and also give you a chance to try out the strategy again.
3) Margin Trading:
Trading on margin means that you are borrowing money from a brokerage firm to trade. When used properly, margins help to amplify the trading results; amplification is just not of profits, but of losses as well, if a trade goes against you. As a newbie, keeping control on the amount of indulgence is vital and trading with cash-in-hand helps to achieve that. To begin with, indulge in day trading without using margin. The high margin requirements for day trading on margin also act as a barrier for many to trading on margin.
4) Know your Entry & Exit timings well:
Knowing the price at which you wish to enter at and exit can help you book profits as well as save you from a wrong trade caused by unnecessary confusion. Don’t play it by ear; you must have some pre-fixed levels in your mind for every stock you plan to trade. In case the markets are not favorable, exit to cut losses.
5) Donot daytrade in 'n' number of stocks
As a beginner, it is advisable to focus on a maximum of one to two stocks during a day trading session. It is easier to track and find opportunities when you have a few stocks. If you simultaneously trade with many stocks, you may miss out on chances to exit at the right time.
6) Avoid day trading activities during Peak Hours:
Many orders placed by investors and traders begin to execute as soon as the markets open in the morning, and thus contribute to price volatility. A seasoned player may be able to recognize patterns and pick appropriately to make profits. But as a novice, it is better to just read the market without making any moves for the first 15-20 minutes. The middle hours are usually less volatile while the movement again begins to pick towards the closing bell. Though the rush hours offer opportunities, as a novice it’s better to avoid that time to trade.
7) Always use your spare money for day-trading:
Day trading is risky and there is a high chance of losses. As a newbie, set aside a surplus amount of funds that you can trade with and which you can afford to lose, while keeping money for your basic living, expenses, etc. This would help in mitigating the depression-risk involved in day trading.
8) Donate ample Time for stock analysis:
Day trading requires time investment. Don’t consider it as an option if you have limited hours to spare. The process requires a trader to track the markets and spot opportunities, which can arise any time during the trading hours.
9) Donot indulge in Penny Stocks Initially:
Keep away from penny stocks as a beginner in day trading. These stocks are highly illiquid and chances of hitting a jackpot are often bleak. Don’t fall into this trap!
10) Your brain is your best analyst friend:
Don’t trust any SMS, mail, advertisement, etc which claim about super normal profits. It’s not that all such sources are bogus but authentication is required. As a rookie be sure not to be tricked by someone who for a commission lands you with a bad trade.
11) Remember, Head is placed higher then heart:
There are times when the stock markets test your nerves. As a day trader you need to learn to keep confidence, greed, hope and fear at bay. The decisions should be governed by logic and not emotion. This may be hard for a beginner but only someone who can learn to control his or her emotions can be successful.
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