Paper Trading Meaning

Jan 20, 2023 | Updated Jul 18, 2023

Paper trading is the practice of simulating trades in cryptocurrencies or other financial instruments, like stocks, without investing real money. Paper trading helps users practice trading strategies before investing with actual funds.

What is Paper Trading in Crypto?

Crypto paper trading, also known as ‘mock trading’ is a way to practice trading cryptocurrencies without risking any real money. Unlike actual trading, paper trading is done on demo platforms where you can learn the basics of crypto trading. It can also help individuals to identify and address any mistakes or weaknesses in their investment strategies before committing real money.

Fun fact: The term “paper trading” was first coined by stock market traders who used to write their proposed trades on pieces of paper.

Paper Trading for Beginners

It can be a useful tool for individuals new to crypto trading as it allows them to test and practice their strategies without risking real money.

Risk-free learning: Paper trading is a form of “back-testing: where traders can practice trading without risking their own funds. It can help prospective traders learn and develop trading skills using real-time crypto prices and trading tools.
Test different trading strategies: Beginners can get hands-on experience in executing different trading strategies and gain exposure to diverse market conditions before diving into actual trades.
Emotion-free Simulation: Paper trading is stress-free and helps you to work through complex decisions without getting emotional. Participants learn about the pitfalls and strategies of trading and are rewarded with hypothetical returns which can boost confidence.

How to Get Started With Paper Trading?

Research: Learn about the basics of cryptocurrency and blockchain technology, as well as the different types of crypto assets available for trading. Understand how the market works and familiarize yourself with the different crypto exchanges and trading platforms.
Set a goal: Decide on what you want to achieve with paper trading, whether it’s to learn about the market, test a strategy or simply to have fun.
Choose a platform: There are several online platforms and mobile apps that allow you to simulate crypto trading. Some of them are free, others charge a small fee. Look for one that has the features you need and that you feel comfortable using.
Open a virtual account: Sign up for a virtual account on the platform of your choice. This will give you a virtual cash balance to start trading with.
Start trading: Once you have your virtual account set up, you can start buying and selling crypto assets. Keep track of your trades and the results as if they were real.
Analyze and improve: Review your performance regularly, and see what worked and what didn’t. Try different strategies and find what works best for you.

It’s worth noting that paper trading is a simulation, it will not give you the same experience as real trading, but will give you a good idea of what to expect. It’s always good to consult with experts and do your own research.

Keep in mind that while paper trading does not use funds for trading, some crypto platforms may charge a subscription fee.

Downsides of Paper Trading

It is a helpful tool to get you started with crypto trading, but it’s not a perfect system.

Commission:It does not always show actual fees or commissions.
It may not fully prepare you for real-world trading: It will not simulate the emotions that traders will feel regarding profits and losses in real-world trades.
Limited security: It is not real, and may evoke false confidence or an unrealistic sense of security.