What’s Your Pre-Trading Routine?
And no—just waking up doesn’t count.
Having a solid pre-market routine is essential.
You can’t just roll out of bed, sit at your desk, fire up your trading platform, and expect the pips to fall into your lap like apples from a tiny tree.
Before you start trading, ask yourself:
What are you actually doing to get ready?
And no, we’re not talking about showering or brushing your teeth—though for the record, please do both. You don’t want to smell like Pipcrawler on a Monday morning.
Why a Pre-Trading Routine Matters
Your daily pre-trading routine should set you up to:
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Review any open positions and adjust as needed
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Reflect on yesterday’s trades—what worked, what didn’t
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Get up to speed with what’s happening in the markets
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Check the news calendar for potential volatility ahead
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Be mentally and technically prepared for the trading session
What Should You Be Doing Before You Trade?
Start by reviewing financial news and global headlines—sites like Bloomberg, CNBC, or even Twitter can help. Figure out what the market mood is for the day.
Then take a look back at how yesterday’s session ended. Were there any key price movements? Are major levels like support or resistance still in play?
This is also the time to go over your trade journal, make notes, or double-check your trading plan.
A Calm Trader Is a Smart Trader
The goal here is to sit down at your trading station feeling calm, confident, and well-informed.
When you’re prepared, you won’t waste time scrambling to react to news or price moves you didn’t see coming.
So yes, your pre-trading routine isn’t just helpful—it’s critical.
Use tools like our economic calendar to stay on top of events that could shake the markets.
Because remember:
A trader flying blind usually ends up in the red.