Day trading takes a lot of practice and know-how and there are several factors that can make it challenging.
First, know that you’re going up against professionals whose careers revolve around trading. These people have access to the best technology and connections in the industry. That means they’re set up to succeed in the end. If you jump on the bandwagon, it usually means more profits for them.
Next, understand that Uncle Sam will want a cut of your profits, no matter how slim. Remember that you’ll have to pay taxes on any short-term gains—investments that you hold for one year or less—at the marginal rate. An upside is that your losses will offset any gains.
Also, as a beginning day trader, you may be prone to emotional and psychological biases that affect your trading—for instance, when your own capital is involved and you’re losing money on a trade. Experienced, skilled professional traders with deep pockets are usually able to surmount these challenges.