01
1. The right question
Do not ask 'how many contracts can I open'. Ask 'how many contracts keep my risk controlled if the stop slips or the market moves faster than expected'. That changes the whole framework.
02
2. A quick rule by context
| Context | Suggestion | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Small account | 1-2 micros | Survival first |
| Tight stop | More size possible | Less risk per contract |
| Wide stop | Less size | Avoid exceeding the daily cap |
| High volatility/news | Reduce size | Noise is higher |
03
3. Symbol examples
| Symbol | Typical stop | Prudent contracts | Comment |
|---|---|---|---|
| MES | 6-10 points | 1-4 | A good starting point |
| ES | 6-10 points | 0-1 | More sensitive to size |
| MNQ | 10-16 points | 1-3 | Useful for curve calibration |
| NQ | 10-16 points | 0-1 | Usually needs more experience |
If you cannot explain why that contract count fits your stop and daily limit, you probably should not use it yet.
04
4. Common mistakes
- Choosing contracts before choosing the stop.
- Increasing size because the setup looks good.
- Ignoring commissions and slippage.
- Using the same size on NQ and MNQ without adjusting volatility.
05
5. TraderPilot recommendation
If contract count changes because of emotional state, it helps when the control layer is handled by the system instead of the head. The goal is to make size a process decision every time.