The common fatal mistake for beginners in the crypto world is rushing into the market. When they see the K-line move, they fear missing out and desperately chase the highs and sell the lows, resulting in high fees and disappearing profits. I have summarized a reliable short-term methodology from real trading experience, which may help you avoid some detours.

**Core Logic of Short-Term Trading**

The key is understanding: patience and selection are often more important than frequent trading. True short-term experts are not the ones trading the most often, but those with the most consistent success rate.

**Specific Four-Step Trading Method**

Step 1: Focus on small timeframes to find the rhythm. Mainly look at 1-minute, 5-minute, and 15-minute K-lines. These small timeframes allow for quicker capture of price changes. Use longer timeframes only as reference; don’t be fooled by false signals from major trends.

Step 2: Use few but precise tools. K-line patterns, moving averages, and volume are enough. Some traders pile up dozens of indicators, which only confuses them. A simple toolset enables faster reactions.

Step 3: Know when to stop. Close positions after earning $4-$9, and cut losses immediately within $1-$2. This principle sounds simple, but execution is the hardest—yet sticking to it can turn small wins into big ones.

Step 4: Choose the right time periods. The London session has sufficient volatility and more concentrated opportunities, while trading during quiet hours increases risk. When there are no opportunities, stay out of the market; don’t trade just to stay "busy."

**Pitfalls to Avoid**

Before the Non-Farm Payrolls release and CPI announcement, stay out of the market for at least 8 minutes. The spread and slippage during this period can directly wipe out all your profits. If losses exceed $3, cut your losses immediately—don’t rely on rebounds to save you.

Following the overall trend is crucial: if the 1-hour EMA is upward, only go long; if downward, only go short. Don’t fight the big trend.

Limit daily trades to no more than 4; 85% of the time should be spent observing. Remember, discipline in refusing to give the exchange free commissions determines your ultimate profitability.

**The Truth Behind the Numbers**

The win rate for short-term trading is usually between 50%-60%, which is normal. But if your risk-reward ratio can reach 2:1 or higher, then a 50% success rate is enough to ensure long-term profitability.

It’s recommended to thoroughly test this strategy on a demo account first. Once confirmed stable, start with small funds on a real account. Short-term trading tests your mindset and execution—there are no shortcuts.