What Type of Trader Are You?
CBS’ Guide to Trading Styles
Introduction & Purpose
Many traders struggle to define whether they are scalpers, swing traders, or level-to-level traders.
Key Question: Are you losing consistency by frequently switching between styles?
Three Main Trading Styles
Scalping (Short-Term, Rapid Trades)
Challenges
Requires quick decision-making and constant screen presence.
Can be emotionally demanding due to fast market movements.
Level-to-Level Trading (Intermediate Approach)
Best for Most Traders
More forgiving than scalping.
Works well for traders who have moderate screen time but don’t want to watch the market all day.
Swing Trading (Long-Term, Higher Timeframes)
Challenges
Requires patience and discipline to hold positions for extended periods.
Many traders intend to swing trade but struggle to resist taking quick profits.
Not ideal for those who monitor the market too frequently.
Common Trading Mistakes & Psychological Challenges
Issues with Style Switching
Many traders claim to be swing traders but end up scalping due to impatience.
Constantly switching styles leads to inconsistency and unnecessary losses.
Specializing in one approach is more effective than trying to master all three.
A Common Mistake Cycle
Starts as a swing trader, planning to hold trades for weeks.
Scalps instead, taking quick profits because of short-term market movements.
Misses the original swing trade entry due to focusing on smaller moves.
Regrets missing the trade and repeats the cycle.
How to Choose the Right Trading Style
If you like fast-paced execution & immediate feedback → Scalping.
If you prefer structured trades with key levels → Level-to-Level Trading.
If you don’t want to monitor the market daily → Swing Trading.
Your available screen time matters - traders who spend long hours at the PC may prefer scalping or level-to-level trading.
Key Takeaways & Final Advice
Stick to one trading style - don’t mix strategies.
Scalping requires speed, level-to-level trading needs patience, and swing trading demands discipline.
Match your trading style to your lifestyle (e.g., swing trading may suit those with full-time jobs).
Trying to master all styles at once leads to failure - focus on one and refine it.