Why a trader should keep a journal: a practical guide

If you are serious about crypto trading, keeping a journal is not just a recommendation, but a necessity. Here’s why.

What to write in a diary?

The main rule: every transaction must be documented. Minimum data set:

• Date and time of entry/exit
• Trading pair (BTC/USDT, ETH/USDT, etc.)
• Position size and leverage ( if you trade with leverage )
• Entry and exit price
• Profit/loss in absolute and percentage terms
• Key point: why did you open position (TA signal, fundamental, news) and why did you close it

Why is this needed?

The journal helps to see patterns. After a month or two, you will notice that:

• On certain bees, your trades are more often in the plus.
• There are specific errors that are recurring.
• Your best strategy works best in certain market conditions.

Bonus info for the diary

Also add:

• Screenshots of charts before entering ( then you will compare with reality )
• Support/resistance levels that were referenced
• News that could influence the movement
• Your emotions (FOMO or panic, cold calculation)

The harsh truth: those who keep a diary learn 10 times faster. You see progress or, on the contrary, realize that you need to change your approach. If you don't write it down, you keep stepping on the same rake for months.