If you are new to futures trading, this guide will show you how to set up your Tradeovate account, organize your chart, and prepare for trading in a simple way.

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1. Choose the Right Mode (Beginner Setup)

Once your Tradeovate account is active, you’ll see:

• Start Live Trading
• Market Replay
• Simulation (Paper Trading)

If you’re a beginner, start with Simulation mode. This is paper trading, where you use virtual money. Tradeovate also offers a free trial (about 14 days) for practice.

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2. Clean and Set Up Your Chart

Your first chart will look crowded, so simplify it:

• Close unnecessary windows and panels
• Remove extra indicators (double-click → remove)
• Keep only what you need for trading

The goal is a clean, distraction-free chart.

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3. Set Up Your Trading Layout (DOM + Chart)

You can arrange your workspace:

• Move your DOM (order panel) to the left or right
• Drag it to your preferred side
• Add Trade Performance tool using the “+” button to track your trades

This helps you analyze your performance easily.

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4. Pick the Right Instrument

For beginners:

• MES (Micro S&P 500) → best for learning (slower, lower risk)
• MNQ (Micro Nasdaq) → slightly more volatile
• Avoid jumping straight into ES or NQ as a beginner

Important: Your chart and DOM must show the same instrument.

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5. Set Up Your Chart Properly

Adjust your chart for better clarity:

• Switch to candlesticks
• Change timeframe to 1-minute chart (avoid 15-minute when learning)

This helps you see price movement more clearly.

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6. How to Place and Manage Trades

Entering a trade:

• Click Buy Market to go long
• Click Sell Market to short or exit

Managing trades:

• Use the close/cancel button to exit positions
• Always place a stop loss after entering a trade to control risk

Orders won’t execute if the market is closed.

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7. Moving From Practice to Real Trading

After practicing on simulation, you can use prop firms like Apex Trader Funding. How it works:

• Choose an account size (e.g., $50,000)
• Pay a monthly fee (often discounted, e.g., ~$33 during promos)
• Pass evaluation to get a funded account

If you pass, you trade with firm capital and can earn withdrawals.

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Final Advice

Futures trading is:

• Fast-moving
• Highly leveraged
• Risky without practice

Always start with simulation, build consistency, and focus on learning before risking real money.