Position Size Calculator — How Much to Trade
The single most important factor separating profitable traders from blown accounts is position sizing. This calculator gives you the exact amount to risk per trade based on your account size, the maximum percentage you want to risk, and your stop-loss distance.
Calculator
Result
Notes
- Most professional traders risk 0.5–2% per trade. Beginners should start at 1%.
- For binary options, the position size IS the stake (you can't lose more than you bet).
- Always verify the calculated amount fits within broker minimum/maximum limits before placing the trade.
How to use this calculator
The calculator updates as you type. Try different inputs to understand how each variable changes the outcome. The math is the same as a spreadsheet model — but pre-built so you don't have to remember the formula.
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How to interpret the result
The Position Size Calculator is a planning tool, not a prediction engine. Use the output to compare scenarios before trading: conservative inputs, realistic average results, and a worst-case case where several trades lose in a row. The number is most valuable when it changes behaviour, for example by reducing trade size, pausing after a drawdown, or choosing demo practice before real balance decisions.
Worked example
Start with the default values, then change one field at a time. If the result becomes unrealistic after a small change, that tells you the plan is fragile. For short-term products, small errors in win rate, payout, average loss, or trade frequency can change the outcome dramatically. Keep a written record of the assumption behind each input.
Limits of the calculator
- It cannot verify the future market, payout, account condition, platform availability, or withdrawal outcome.
- It should not be used to justify higher risk after a losing streak.
- It works best together with a demo log, fixed risk cap, and a rule for stopping when results move outside the plan.
FAQ
How much should I risk per trade?
1–2% of account equity per trade is the industry standard for active traders. Beginners should start at 0.5–1% until they have 100+ trades of data.
Does this work for binary options?
Yes. For binary options, the position size equals your stake. You cannot lose more than the staked amount per contract.
How does the stop loss field work for CFDs?
Enter the dollar amount you'll lose if your stop hits. The calculator divides your risk budget by this to get the number of shares/contracts.
What's a safe daily loss limit?
Most prop firms cap daily losses at 4–5% of account equity. After hitting that, stop trading for the day and review your journal.
Open a free demo to apply this
Test sizing rules on a $50,000 demo account before risking real funds.