I have been messing around on this trading road for many years, trying all kinds of complicated strategies, and finally I understand a painful truth—profitability doesn't rely on fancy tricks, it's just two simple words: simplicity and discipline.

The following nine principles are lessons learned through real money. I hope they can help you avoid some detours.

**Trend lines are your lifeline**

For short-term trading, looking at the 5-day moving average is enough; hold when above the line, and immediately exit if it breaks below. Mid-term investors watch the 20-day line. Does this method sound too basic? But basics are the most disciplined. No matter how good complex methods are, you can't stick to them for more than a few days.

**Anti-dip signals are actually signals**

When the market is bloodied and bleeding, but your coins are only mildly falling, it usually indicates big funds are accumulating below. Coins like this often surprise you after a few days, so don’t rush to cut losses.

**Volume tells the truth**

In the rising phase, a rise without volume can be held; but if volume increases and the price drops below the trend line, it’s a clear signal to reduce positions. Don’t hesitate.

**Short-term trading means quick action**

If you buy and there’s no significant movement after three days, get out quickly; cut losses at 5% loss—no exceptions. This is to prevent a trade from becoming increasingly passive and deepening the trap.

**Bounces often follow sharp declines**

When a coin drops more than half from its peak and continues falling for many days, it’s usually entering an oversold zone. A rebound opportunity may be brewing, so patience is needed.

**Only follow strong trending coins**

Focus on leading coins; they are the most aggressive when rising and the most resilient when falling. Don’t be attracted by cheap coins, nor fear that strong coins have already risen significantly. Weak coins are cheap for a reason.

**Follow the trend, not gamble on bottoms**

Buying prices don’t have to be the lowest, but they must be “right.” Never touch coins in a downtrend. Opportunities are plentiful in this world; there’s no need to fight against the trend.

**Luck and skill are two different things**

Making a profit on one or two trades might just be luck; sustained profitability requires a complete system. Carefully review each trade and gradually develop your own stable method.

**Sometimes not trading is more profitable than trading**

When you don’t see the clear picture, staying out is the smartest choice. The primary goal of trading is to preserve capital; making money is secondary.

Overall, this approach may seem unremarkable, but truly executing it requires overcoming human nature. I hope these experiences inspire you.