In the crypto world, survival is always the top priority. Making money? That's after you stay alive.

This article is dedicated to all traders who are still exploring. It’s not a secret trading signal guide, but a set of trading principles based on practical experience.

**Rule 1: Take profits when you have them**

The biggest trap in the crypto space is thinking that the numbers in your account are real money. They’re not.

My own rule is simple: for every 1000U increase in your account, immediately withdraw 400U to your bank card. The remaining amount continues to operate. The benefit of this approach is that unrealized gains stay in the account to withstand fluctuations, while real profits are already secured.

Most losses happen here. The idea of "earning a little more" makes people hold onto their positions, ultimately not only giving back profits but also risking their principal.

**Rule 2: Let the data do the talking, don’t rely on feelings**

Relying on intuition is typical for retail traders and a sure path to losses.

I recommend using TradingView, focusing on these three indicators: MACD, RSI, and Bollinger Bands. Entry rules are strict — consider placing an order only when at least two indicators align. Use the 1-hour K-line chart for short-term judgment, and the 4-hour chart for trend analysis. The 5-minute chart has too much noise and can easily deceive with false signals.

For example, when going long on ETH, you should see two consecutive 1-hour candles above the middle Bollinger Band, and MACD showing a bullish crossover before acting.

**Rule 3: Stop-losses should be dynamic**

Static stop-losses are at a disadvantage in highly volatile markets and are easily wiped out.

Choose between two methods: if you have time to monitor the market, dynamically raise your stop-loss; if not, set a loose but firm stop-loss — better to lose a little than get wiped out by nighttime reversals. This is the prerequisite for surviving in trading.