How to Write a Trading Journal: Best Methods for Each Personality

Why 95% of Traders Don't Keep Journals?

Trading journals are proven to help, but most can't stick with them. The reason is simple:

They're using methods that don't match their personality.

STAR types love detailed spreadsheets, while ITAR types get bored after two lines.

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Essential Journal Elements

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Journal Templates by Personality

Systematic Traders (S-type) - Data-Heavy

Use spreadsheets with:
• Technical indicator values
• Plan compliance score
• Win rate and risk/reward tracking

Intuitive Traders (I-type) - Quick Narrative

Use voice notes or brief text:
• Record a few sentences at entry/exit
• Focus on feelings and intuition
• Weekly review and consolidation

Long-term Investors (L-type) - Weekly Review

Use weekly/monthly reviews:
• Position changes and rationale
• Fundamental updates
• Macro environment impact

Short-term Traders (T-type) - Screenshot Method

Use screenshots with annotations:
• Screenshot at entry and exit
• Mark good executions vs impulsive trades
• 10-minute evening review

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Key Review Questions

Execution

1. Did I follow my plan? 2. What triggered deviations? 3. Was timing good?

Psychology

1. What was my emotional state? 2. Was I anxious while holding? 3. Was exit rational or emotional?

Improvement

1. What would I do differently? 2. What did this trade teach me? 3. What's my plan for similar situations?

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Conclusion

A trading journal helps you know yourself as a trader.

Test Your Trader Personality →