Even experienced traders fall into traps that seem obvious in hindsight. Here are some critical trading strategy mistakes to watch out for:  

1. **No Clear Plan** – Entering trades without defined entry/exit points or risk management is gambling, not trading. Always follow a strategy.  

2. **Overcomplicating the Strategy** – Too many indicators or rules lead to analysis paralysis. Simplicity often works best.  

3. **Ignoring Risk-Reward Ratios** – Taking trades with poor risk-reward (e.g., risking $1 to make $0.50) destroys profitability over time.  

4. **Revenge Trading** – Trying to recover losses immediately often leads to bigger losses. Stick to your plan.  

5. **Overtrading** – Forcing trades in slow markets or outside your strategy increases commissions and emotional stress.  

6. **Not Adapting to Market Conditions** – A trend-following strategy fails in choppy markets. Adjust or stay out.  

7. **Emotional Decisions** – Fear and greed override logic.