Simple Strategy for Trading: A Beginner-Friendly Guide
Trading doesn’t have to be complicated. In fact, some of the most consistent traders use simple strategies to make decisions. This post outlines a simple strategy for trading that you can implement right away—even if you’re new to the markets.
Why Simple Strategies Work
Complex trading systems may look impressive but often lead to analysis paralysis. A simple approach:
- Keeps your trading rules clear
- Reduces emotional decision-making
- Increases consistency over time
The Core of This Simple Trading Strategy
This strategy combines three basic elements:
- Moving Averages
- Support and Resistance
- Volume Confirmation
Let’s break it down.
Step 1: Identify the Trend with Moving Averages
Use two Exponential Moving Averages (EMAs):
- 20 EMA – short-term trend
- 50 EMA – medium-term trend
Entry Signal:
- Buy when 20 EMA crosses above 50 EMA (bullish crossover)
- Sell when 20 EMA crosses below 50 EMA (bearish crossover)
Step 2: Draw Support and Resistance Zones
Use recent swing highs and lows to mark key price levels.
- Buy near support in an uptrend
- Sell near resistance in a downtrend
This adds context and improves entry/exit points.
Step 3: Confirm with Volume
Use volume spikes to validate your trade.
- High volume on a breakout = strong signal
- Low volume on a breakout = potential fakeout
Combine this with your moving average setup for higher probability trades.
Example Setup
- 20 EMA crosses above 50 EMA
- Price pulls back to a support zone
- Volume rises as price bounces
→ Enter a long position with stop loss below support.
Risk Management Rules
- Risk only 1–2% of capital per trade
- Set stop-loss below recent low (for long) or high (for short)
- Use a 1:2 risk-reward ratio
Best Timeframes for This Strategy
- Intraday: 5-min and 15-min charts
- Swing: 1-hour and daily charts
Choose based on your trading style and availability.
Tools You Can Use
- TradingView: for charting and indicators
- Thinkorswim: for real-time execution
- Stock scanners: to find setups (e.g., Finviz, Trade Ideas)
FAQs
Q1. Is this strategy suitable for beginners?
Yes, it uses basic indicators and price action—perfect for new traders.
Q2. Can I use this for forex or crypto?
Absolutely. This strategy works across stocks, forex, crypto, and even commodities.
Q3. Do I need paid tools?
No. Free platforms like TradingView and Investing.com are enough to apply this strategy.
Q4. What’s the success rate?
Like any strategy, results vary—but combining it with risk management improves win rates.
Q5. How do I practice this strategy?
Use demo accounts or paper trading before committing real capital.