Common mistakes include changing the rules after entering a trade, using unrealistically large positions, ignoring fees or slippage, and taking only the setups that look good in hindsight.
Keep the simulation honest
Use realistic position sizes, record decisions before outcomes are known, and apply the same entry and exit rules repeatedly. Do not move a stop simply to avoid recording a loss.
Learn from evidence
Keep a journal and review losing as well as winning trades. The goal is not to create a perfect record; it is to understand whether your process is repeatable and where risk needs improvement.
