When I first stumbled across the concept of automated trading, I was skeptical. As someone who spent hours glued to my trading screens, analyzing charts and second-guessing every decision, the idea of a system executing trades on my behalf felt like science fiction. But curiosity got the best of me—and I’m glad it did.
This article is for anyone who feels the same mix of hesitation and excitement I did. Whether you’re new to trading or just tired of the emotional rollercoaster that comes with managing trades manually, I’ll show you how I built my first automated options trading system step by step—and how you can do it too.
What Is an Auto Trading System and Why Start One?
An automated trading system is software that automatically executes trades based on predefined rules or signal alerts. You set the strategy, and the system handles execution—even while you’re away from the screen.
The biggest game changer for me wasn’t just saving time. It was the emotional discipline. Manual trading often leads to impulsive decisions driven by fear or greed. With trade automation, every trade follows a consistent logic, free from second-guessing.
Automated trading works especially well in the U.S. options market thanks to the variety of strategies available—from simple spreads to complex structures. And with modern tools supporting full automation, even beginners can replicate institutional-grade systems.
If you’re looking to understand the basics of these systems, I recommend reading Investopedia’s explanation of automated investing.
Essential Tools and Software You’ll Need for Options Automation
Getting started with options automation doesn’t require hundreds of tools—just the right ones:
- Brokerage Account: I use Interactive Brokers for accounts over $100k, but this guide to brokerage accounts will help you choose based on your capital and needs.
- Auto Trading Software: I use Global AutoTrading. It’s been around since 2007, integrates with major brokers, and ensures reliable execution.
- Signal Provider: I subscribed to Advanced AutoTrades, which offers strategies fully compatible with automation. Their Monthly Trend signals are ideal for beginners who prefer low-risk setups and hands-free execution.
If you’re serious about validating your system, take time to study this complete guide to backtesting automated strategies. It walks you through how to test systems before going live.
Step-by-Step: How I Built My First Auto Trading System
- Open a Brokerage Account: I went with Interactive Brokers, but if you’re starting small, Tradier or AutoShares might be a better fit.
- Subscribe to Autotrading Software: I signed up with Global AutoTrading and connected it to my broker. It took less than 30 minutes to get running.
- Pick a Signal Provider: I chose Advanced AutoTrades’ Monthly Trend signal service—just one trade per month, optimized for beginners.
- Start Small: Initially, I traded one contract per signal to limit exposure and gain confidence.
- Track Performance: I reviewed my trades weekly and compared them against the provider’s log. This confirmed the system was executing correctly.
- Scale Gradually: With consistent results, I increased allocations gradually.
- Set Up Alerts: I enabled email alerts for every trade execution and system error. Staying updated helped me act fast when needed.
Common Beginner Mistakes with Automated Options Trading
- Technical Confusion: Setup can feel complex at first. Don’t hesitate to reach out to platform support—they guided me through most issues.
- Risking Too Much Too Soon: It’s tempting to overallocate early. Stick with one contract until you’ve validated the system’s accuracy. If you’re not sure how much risk is appropriate, this beginner-friendly guide to risk management in automated trading can help you avoid common pitfalls.
- Wrong Configurations: Misconfigured settings caused me to miss trades. Always double-check tickers, quantity, and timing rules.
- Overconfidence: Early wins made me overly optimistic. I had to factor in slippage costs and commissions to stay realistic.
Want to learn from my mistakes? Here’s a breakdown of the most common errors in auto trading and how to fix them.
How to Maintain and Optimize Your Auto Trading System
- Monthly Reviews: I analyze trade reports each month to verify signal accuracy and execution performance.
- Backtest Often: I use Thinkorswim’s on-demand tools to test strategies against past market conditions.
- Focus on Steady Growth: Rather than gambling for big wins, I target consistent setups with a favorable risk-to-reward ratio.
- Stay Proactive: I monitor alerts for trade failures, brokerage issues, or software updates that might impact execution.
Final Thoughts
Setting up my first auto trading system changed the way I approach the market. It gave me time freedom, emotional stability, and consistency in execution. For beginner options traders especially, it’s a great way to implement proven strategies with minimal screen time.
If you’re looking to automate your trading without the steep learning curve, I recommend starting with our Monthly Trend bull put spread signals. One trade per month. Defined risk. Fully automated. Perfect for beginners ready to trade smarter—not harder.
