The best entry in the world cannot save a position that is too big. Sizing decides how long you survive; your edge decides how much you make while you survive.
The formula
Lots = (Equity × Risk %) ÷ (Stop distance × Value per point per lot). On EURUSD one standard lot is worth $10 per pip, so a 20-pip stop risking 1% of $100,000 ($1,000) gives 1,000 ÷ (20 × 10) = 5 lots.
Use the built-in calculator
Our order ticket has a risk calculator. Enable a stop loss, type the % of equity you want to risk and press "Size position": the volume is set for you, and the ticket shows the dollar risk at your stop before you click Buy or Sell.
How much to risk
- 0.5%–1% per trade is a common range during an evaluation.
- With a 4% daily limit, four consecutive 1% losses already put you at the edge. Many traders stop for the day after two or three.
- Reduce size after a losing streak; never increase it to "win it back".