Risk/Reward Calculator
Based on Trade Values
Based on Custom Risk/Reward
Risk/Reward Calculator: Optimize Your Trading Decisions
Our Risk/Reward Calculator helps traders make informed decisions by calculating the potential risk-to-reward ratio of their trades. Understanding your R:R ratio is crucial for developing a consistent and profitable trading strategy.
How to Use the Risk/Reward Calculator
Choose between two calculation methods:
- Trade Values Method: Enter your entry price, stop-loss, and target price to automatically calculate your risk-to-reward ratio based on actual trade values.
- Custom Risk/Reward Method: Directly input your risk and reward values if you already know them or want to plan your ideal ratios.
Based on Trade Values (Price-Based Method)
The Trade Values method calculates your risk-to-reward ratio using actual market prices. Enter three key values:
- Entry Price: The price at which you plan to enter the trade
- Stop Loss Price: The price where you’ll exit if the trade moves against you
- Target Price: Your profit-taking price level
For example, if you enter at $100, set a stop-loss at $95, and target $110:
- Your risk is $5 (Entry $100 – Stop Loss $95)
- Your reward is $10 (Target $110 – Entry $100)
- This creates a Risk:Reward ratio of 1:2 (5:10)
Based on Custom Risk/Reward (Value-Based Method)
The Custom method allows you to input direct risk and reward values. This is useful when you:
- Already know your maximum risk amount
- Want to calculate ratios using currency values directly
- Are planning position sizes based on account risk
For example, if you’re willing to risk $100 to make $300:
- Enter Risk Value: 100
- Enter Reward Value: 300
- This creates a Risk:Reward ratio of 1:3
Both methods help you evaluate trade opportunities, but they serve different purposes:
- Use Trade Values when analyzing charts and planning specific entry/exit points
- Use Custom Risk/Reward when focusing on account management or when you already know your exact risk and reward amounts in currency terms
Remember: A risk-to-reward ratio of at least 1:2 is commonly recommended, meaning your potential profit should be at least twice your potential loss. However, your specific trading strategy and risk tolerance should guide your ideal ratio.
Why Risk/Reward Ratios Matter
A proper risk-to-reward ratio is fundamental for successful trading. Most professional traders aim for a minimum 1:2 ratio, risking 1 unit to potentially gain 2 or more. This calculator helps you:
- Evaluate trade setups before entering positions
- Maintain consistent risk management
- Plan your stop-loss and take-profit levels
- Improve your trading discipline
This Risk/Reward Calculator is designed for traders who want to maximize their potential returns while managing risk effectively. Whether you’re day trading, swing trading, or investing long-term, understanding your risk-to-reward ratio is essential for making informed trading decisions.
Not only does our calculator help you determine if a trade meets your risk management criteria, but it also promotes disciplined trading by encouraging you to plan your entry, exit, and stop-loss points before entering any position.
Note: This calculator is designed for educational purposes. Always conduct thorough analysis and consider multiple factors before making trading decisions.