Things You'll Need:
- Access to research tools: charts, financial websites or other financial news publications
-
Step 1
Research securities and find the ones that might be considered "in play" during a particular day. For stocks, this might mean finding a company that is about to report earnings. For foreign currency perhaps it means finding a currency whose home nation is announcing unemployment news or a related catalyst.
-
Step 2
Embrace volatility. Volatility can be a scary word to many investors, but day traders love it. Volatile securities are how day traders make their living. It literally doesn't pay to trade a stock or currency pair that has a penchant for trading in tight ranges all day.
-
Step 3
Look for high volume. Securities that have low volume also lack volatility, meaning it will be harder to make money in the intraday timeframe. In addition, low-volume securities can be difficult to sell and you cannot make money unless you can close your position.
-
Step 4
Consider using a market screener or scanner. Some trading services offer scanners for free. Some are available for a monthly fee. These tools can help you find the best intraday opportunities and some you may have missed during your premarket routine.
-
Step 5
Study charts. Stock and currency charts often have clues about potential breakouts or collapses. Make chart review a part of your daily routine if you're day trading.






