Building a solid trading plan isn't just about picking winners—it's about having a repeatable framework that actually works.

Start with your timeframe. This determines everything else. Day traders typically work the 15-minute to 60-minute charts, catching intraday momentum. Swing traders go wider, usually 4-hour or daily charts, riding medium-term moves. Position traders? They often circle back to shorter timeframes (15m-60m) but hold for structural breakouts. Pick one and stick with it.

Next, nail down your risk. This is non-negotiable. Risk only 1-3% of your total capital per trade. Whether you're trading crypto options, equities, or futures, this rule keeps you alive long enough to be right over time. One bad trade won't wreck your account.

Finally, identify your conditions. Are you trading ranging markets or trending ones? Do you have an edge there? You can apply these principles across options, equities, or futures—the mechanics differ, but the discipline stays the same.

Without these three elements locked in, you're just gambling. With them? You've got a real plan.