In order of importance to me are: 1) the long term trend, 2) the current chart pattern, and 3)picking a good spot to buy or sell.

The trend is your friend except at the end where it bends.

I turn bullish at the instant my buy stop is hit, and stay bullish until my sell stop is hit.

Risk no more that you can afford to lose, and also risk enough so that a win is meaningful.

Pyramiding instructions appear on dollar bills. Add smaller and smaller amounts on the way up. Keep your eye open at the top.

Losing a position is aggravating, whereas losing your nerve is devastating.

Longevity is the key to success.