Educational content only. Not financial advice. Markets involve risk. Trade responsibly.
This article is designed to be actionable. If you searched for vwap, use the steps below as a repeatable routine rather than a one-time read.
Key takeaways
A short routine or framework you can execute in minutes.
Filters to avoid low-quality trades.
A practical checklist you can reuse daily.
Common mistakes and quick fixes.
Why this matters
Most retail traders lose money through inconsistency: different setups, different risk, different rules every day. A small routine fixes that by reducing decision fatigue and forcing clarity.
The simple framework
Define today’s market type (trend/range/chop).
Trade only at pre-marked zones (avoid the middle).
Pick 1–2 setups maximum (your playbook).
Predefine invalidation and position size (1R).
Stop at your daily loss cap—no exceptions.
Quick checklist (copy/paste)
I know what I’m trading and why.
I know where I’m wrong (invalidation).
I know exactly how much I can lose today (daily cap).
I am not trading out of boredom or anger.
Common mistakes
Consuming too much noise → reduce inputs, increase rules.
Saying ‘I’ll exit manually’ → define exit rules now.
Taking random trades because ‘it looks strong’ → only trade your setups.
FAQ
How long should this routine take?
10–20 minutes is enough. Longer routines often become procrastination.
What if I miss a move?
Missing trades is normal. Chasing is expensive. Wait for the next planned setup.
How do I know if I’m improving?
Track outcomes in R, and track ‘rule adherence %’. That’s your real KPI.
Related (internal links)
A+ Trade Framework: /articles/a-plus-trade-framework-trade-less-improve-faster
Stop-Loss Placement Guide: /articles/stop-loss-placement-fixed-percent-why-fails