Step by Step Trading: The Essentials of Computerized Technical Trading

This brief book will introduce you to self-organization and risk management, but zoom into technical trading tools. We’ll cover indicators, several trading systems, setting profit targets and stops, and much more. What’s unique about this book is that all of its charts, tools, indicators, and systems have been programmed and are waiting for you at www.Stockcharts.com. If you have different software, you can still use this book because its concepts are universal. DO NOT buy this book if you are a paid-up member of StockCharts – they will give this book to you. If, on the other hand, you’re looking for trading software or have another package you like, this book is definitely for you. Most beginners jump into trading unprepared. They remind me of new skiers who hop into a gondola and ride to the top of the mountain without a clue how to ski down its slopes. Even if you already have some experience, you’ll find much that is useful and surprising in this book. On the other hand, if you’re already a professional trader, this may be too basic for you, and I’d refer you instead to my main book, The New Trading for a Living. My goal in writing this book was to help you avoid common pitfalls and master the key principles that will serve you for the rest of your trading life. Thanks to StockCharts.com, you’ll be able to start using my templates and tools without delay. CONTENTS Free updates and the honor code INTRODUCTION Markets are tough Two steps that will put you ahead of the crowd How this book is organized How to control risk Good records make good traders TECHNICAL ANALYSIS Choosing software (Why StockCharts) Let’s create a chart (actually, two charts) Dressing a naked chart: a pair of moving averages Profits from manic-depression (using envelopes) The power of bulls and bears (MACD indicator) May the force be with you (Force Index) Less is more (other indicators) TRADING SYSTEMS The trades to avoid (the Impulse system) Every trade deserves a name (the system you trade) Buying pullbacks in an uptrend Catching revers