We see a lot of aspiring traders who are just so overwhelmed by everything and have no idea where to start. That's why I've created this basic outline on where to begin. (thanks Mitch / Brett for the idea!).

Please print this out or bookmark it and use it as your HANDBOOK if you will!

0. Grasp the concept of candlesticks, moving averages, oscillators, and discipline. Do this by reading the following books at a minimum:

a. Trading in the Zone.
b. Unlimited Power (Anthony Robbins).
c. High Probability Trading.
d. The Logical Trader.

These can also be found on our recommended reading list at http://www.puretick.com/reading.html

1. Get the necessary software. The best software will depend mostly on your personal preference. Real time quotes are required! Popular charting: eSignal, Trade Station, IRT, and Sierra. Most offer a 30 day demo.

2. Set up a brokerage account with one of the two brokers mentioned on PureTick faq page at http://www.puretick.com/faq.html

3. Chart Setup: Here is a summary of the chart setup we typically use in the trading room. It's a good idea to have this ready to go when you join the room. viewtopic.php?p=186#186

4. Read up on the trading setups we use in the room. Click this link here: viewforum.php?f=3 for a pictures and basic text explanations of each setup.

5. How To Enter Trades: The following link will give you a general idea on how to put a position on and enter a trade from a newbie perspective. As you evolve and use more contracts you'll become comfortable with expanding this, but these are general guidelines to keep you green. Go to: viewtopic.php?t=49

6. Video lessons! - Visit the video page for a wealth of knowledge on the markets and trading setups. We have over 100 videos. There is not one magical video that will make you a good trader. Watch them when you find the time. Click here: viewtopic.php?p=438

7. Join the live trading room trial and run simulated trades for at least 2 weeks before
starting with real $ cash, with the minimum amount of contracts. Make sure you read everything on the member menu and whatever you can get your hands on. If you dont understand a term or indicator visit Investopedia.com and look up its usage.

8. Before you jump in the trading room, please DO follow this guide and read everything you can get your hands on. If you ask obvious questions, you may find some of the seasoned traders are frustrated with you for not putting in your due diligence. They are willing to help people who wish to help themselves. Learning to trade takes months, not days. Sorry! We are here to speed up your learning curve but we can not make it disappear.

9. If you are serious about doing this as a profession or wish to learn more on tape reading, you may wish to look at Alex's mentorship program. It's a one on one intensive training course thats bound to make you a better trader. See: http://www.puretick.com/mentorship

10. Before you set foot in the room, AT LEAST know what a trend is and how to decipher whether a trend is up or down. Read this simple post: viewtopic.php?p=491#491

General note: Expect to make nothing in the first couple of months!
If it goes well, make about $100 a day on average for the first six months.
After that, the sky is the limit. Don't be greedy. This is a profession that must be learned like any other! Doctors don't operate for years!

Cajun / Geoff / Co-Admin PureTick.com