Step 1. Define your goals and then choose a style of trading that is compatible with those goals. Be sure your personality is a match for the style of trading you choose.

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Step 2. Choose a broker with whom you feel comfortable but also one who offers a trading platform that is appropriate for your style of trading.

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Step 3. Choose a methodology and then be consistent in its application. Before you enter any market as a trader, you need to have some idea of how you will make decisions to execute your trades.

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Step 4. Choose a longer time frame for direction analysis and a shorter time frame to time entry or exit.Many traders get confused because of conflicting information that occurs when looking at charts in different time frames.

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Step 5. Calculate your expectancy.Expectancy is the formula you use to determine how reliable your system is. You should go back in time and measure all your trades that were winners versus all your trades that were losers.

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Step 6. Focus on your trades and learn to love small losses.Once you have funded your account, the most important thing to remember is that your money is at risk. Therefore, your money should not be needed for living or to pay bills etc.

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Step 7. Build positive feedback loops.A positive feedback loop is created as a result of a well-executed trade in accordance with your plan. When you plan a trade and then execute it well, you form a positive feedback pattern.

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Step 8. Perform weekend analysis.On the weekend, when the markets are closed, study weekly charts to look for patterns or news that could affect your trade.

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Step 9. Keep a printed record.Keeping a printed record is one of the best learning tools a trader can have. Print out a chart and list all the reasons for the trade, including the fundamentals that sway your decisions. Mark the chart with your entry and your exit points.

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