Just less than two years into the crypto world? This deadly trading habit must be changed immediately, or losses will deepen—whenever you see K-line fluctuations, you panic and place orders, afraid of missing any market move, completely unaware of what "waiting" really means. This is not bad luck, but a complete misjudgment of trading rhythm.

The core issue with short-term trading is this: most people simply can't wait. It seems like opportunities to make money are everywhere, but in reality, the truly reliable entry points are painfully few. To change this situation, a systematic methodology is needed.

**Short-Term Trading Execution Framework**

First, focus on the correct cycle. Short-term profits come from immediate fluctuations, with the key being the 1-minute, 5-minute, and 15-minute K-line cycles. Don't look at 4-hour or daily charts to guide short-term decisions—that will only increase judgment costs.

Second, use a few precise tools. Selecting 1 to 3 core tools is enough—K-line patterns, moving averages, and volume. Many people clutter their screens with numerous indicators, resulting in conflicting signals and ultimately trading based on gut feeling. Less is more; specialization helps clarify signals.

Third, enforce strict discipline. Set profit targets in the range of $2-$6; once reached, exit immediately—never be greedy. Place stop-losses at $0.5-$1.5; once triggered, exit instantly. Many lose control here, allowing losses to grow beyond $2 before closing, ending up completely wiped out.

Fourth, choose the right time window. After the London session begins, market activity significantly increases, and opportunities become more frequent. Trading during quiet periods only adds frustration.

**Risk Avoidance Checklist**

Be flat (no position) at least ten minutes before major data releases. Major economic indicators like Non-Farm Payrolls and CPI can cause spreads to explode and slippage to skyrocket. No matter how strong your technical analysis, it’s useless during these times. Better to stay away than to gamble.

If losses exceed $1.5, stop-loss immediately—don’t hesitate. Holding on stubbornly leads to short-term turning into medium-term, and medium-term into long-term, eventually wiping out your account. Many people lose everything at this step.

Never go against the major trend in short-term trading. Even if you’re only trading for a few minutes, check the 1-hour trend first. If the 1-hour EMA is in an upward channel, only look for long opportunities; if downward, only look for shorts. This is your last safety net.

Overtrading is the killer of accounts. Limit your daily trades to no more than 3; the remaining 90% of the time should be spent waiting and observing. Frequent trading essentially means paying unnecessary fees to the exchange—more activity makes you poorer.

**Reality Data and Expectation Management**

The success rate for short-term trading generally ranges between 45%-55%, which is an objective fact. So why do some still profit? The answer lies in the risk-reward ratio. Maintain a ratio of 1.8:1—for example, aim to make $5.4 while limiting losses to $3—so even with a success rate of only 50%, you can be profitable in the long run.

The best approach for beginners is to first test strategies in a simulated environment to ensure consistent profitability, then enter the market with small funds. This is not excessive caution but respect for the market. Short-term gold trading is like dancing on the edge of a knife; the only thing that can protect you is trading discipline.