The most common mistakes beginners make when entering the futures market are often not due to how fierce the market is, but because they start off on the wrong foot.

Having seen too many stories of accounts being wiped out immediately after entering, a careful analysis shows that the problems mainly focus on a few deadly errors. Instead of paying tuition fees, it's better to understand these pitfalls now.

**First Pitfall: Greedy Leverage Multipliers**

Newcomers often think about doubling their money as soon as they enter. Going all-in with 50x or 100x leverage seems like the only way to not let themselves down. But what happens? Slight market fluctuations can wipe out the account in seconds.

Futures trading isn't about courage; it's about risk management. Excessively high leverage is like a bomb ready to explode at any moment. In reality, 3 to 5x leverage is sufficient—enough to withstand volatility while leaving room for adjustments.

**Second Pitfall: No Stop-Loss, Hard Holding**

"Wait a bit, the rebound will definitely come"—this phrase is heard too often, and the ending is usually the same.

Before opening a position, set a stop-loss level. After making a profit, remember to raise your stop-loss. This isn't a negative attitude; it's insurance for staying alive in the market. Surviving 100 trades is always better than losing everything in one.

**Third Pitfall: All Chips in One Basket**

When an opportunity arises, thinking about making a big move. This mindset is a direct highway to liquidation.

There is a strict rule in risk management: control risk per trade within 2% of total capital. Suppose your capital is 10,000 USD, and you're using 10x leverage; your single trade should not exceed 200 USD. Setting it this way ensures that even if the market moves violently, you won't blow up your account.

**Fourth Pitfall: Being Driven by Emotions**

Chasing after gains when prices rise, panicking when they fall, FOMO taking over—these lead to reckless operations. It may look active, but most of the time, it's just giving money to the exchange.

Profitable traders long-term have pre-written plans and strictly follow rules. They don't stare at the K-line all day, scared by price swings. The cost of staying up all night watching the market is letting emotions override rationality.

**Fifth Pitfall: Underestimating Exchange Variability**

The most annoying aspects of the futures market are slippage, spread, and extreme volatility—these often appear when you're least prepared.

Prioritize trading on top-tier platforms, as they handle risks more professionally during extreme market conditions. When major news breaks or the market is highly abnormal, it's best to stay calm and avoid impulsive moves.

**Summary**

Futures trading is indeed brutal, but the mechanism is fair to everyone. Winners are often those who prioritize risk control and remain patient. Instead of being tripped up by these pitfalls, it's better to establish your own trading discipline now. Steady and consistent is the long-term way to survive in this market.