
First, I would read the educational brochure produced by the CBOE (Chicago Board Options Exchange). It is required reading for any options trader.
Second, I would sign up with one of the online discount brokers. I use Charles Schwab but there are many good ones.
Third, pick a stock. Decide if you are bullish on the stock or bearish on the stock. If you are bullish (positive) start to paper trade using the call option pricing available from your online broker. Do various trades, in the money, at the money, out of the money and far out of the money calls.
If you are bearish (negative) on the stock start to paper trade using the put option pricing. Do the same thing, buy in the money, at the money, out of the money and far out of the money puts.
Buy calls or puts in the near month (the next month), out a quarter, six months and if they are available buy a long dated LEAP.
Track the results every day. Note whether the stock went up or down, the dollar amount and the percentage amount. Then note the same thing for each of the options you pretended to buy. Also note whether or not your option has produced a profit (current price of the option minus the premium resulting in a positive number).
When you reach a point where you understand what will happen to the price of your option that day based on the movement of the stock price and you understand which option maturity and strike price is going to produce the best result given your view, you may be ready to trade a simple option strategy.
Until then, keep trading on paper only. If you don't do this, tuition to learn how to trade options may be very steep. You may lose a lot of money.







I am interested in investing a SMALL amount of money to GET RICH QUICK. (I do not plan to exercise the option).
Should I become a call option buyer?
Posted by: Bob Hansell | February 11, 2006 3:15 PM | Permalink to Comment