Risk management is what keeps a trader in the game long enough to become good. Without it, even the best strategy eventually fails.
The 1R rule
Define 1R = the amount of money you are willing to lose on one position (e.g. 1% of your capital). All results are measured in multiples of R: a +2R target means a potential profit of twice the risk.
Determining position size
- Set your risk in money (e.g. capital of 10,000,000 × 1% = 100,000).
- Measure the distance from entry to stop loss in pips.
- Lot size = money at risk ÷ (pip distance × pip value).
This way, a wider stop automatically produces a smaller lot — the money at risk stays the same.
Risk/reward ratio
Prioritize plans with a potential reward at least equal to the risk (1:1), and ideally more. With an RR of 1:2, you can be right only 40% of the time and still grow.
Key points
- Decide your risk before you enter, not after price has moved.
- Keep risk per position consistent; never "take revenge" with a big lot.
Risk disclaimer: all content on this site is provided for educational purposes and is not financial advice, signals, an invitation to trade, or a promise of profit. Trading carries a high risk and may result in the loss of part or all of your capital. Check the legality of service providers in your jurisdiction.