Trends become more apparent as you step further away from the chart.

The trading rules I live by are: 1. Cut losses. 2. Ride winners. 3. Keep bets small. 4. Follow the rules without question. 5. Know when to break the rules.

My style is basically trend following, with some special pattern recognition and money management algorithms.

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

To avoid whipsaw losses, stop trading.

Trying to trade during a losing streak is emotionally devastating. Trying to play 'catch up' is lethal.

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.