An intraday session playbook

Prerequisite: A repeatable multi-timeframe process

On a small screen, scroll the figure sideways or open it full size.

Learning objective

Turn a chosen observation window into a repeatable preparation, execution and review process.

An intraday playbook defines when a method is observed and when positions must be closed or reviewed. Forex activity varies across Asia-Pacific, European and North American sessions. The label London session does not establish a universal broker trading schedule or a guaranteed liquid period for every symbol.

Before the window, record instrument, provider hours, timezone, scheduled events and current cost conditions. Daylight-saving changes do not happen on identical dates everywhere. Express times with an actual date and timezone so the same rule can be reconstructed later rather than relying on an ambiguous local clock.

During the window, use predetermined conditions for entry eligibility, no-trade periods, exposure and session stop. Afterward, preserve screenshots, timestamps, decision reasons and execution costs. A flat session is a valid outcome; a playbook is a process definition, not an obligation to trade.

Common mistakes

Do not assume an overlap always reduces spreads or increases profitability. Avoid moving the session boundary after losses; volatility, news and provider breaks can invalidate a planned window.

Practice

Prepare a one-page practice playbook for one dated session. Include two no-trade conditions, an interruption procedure and the information to record even when no setup appears.

Sources & further reading

• IG — Forex market sessions and daylight saving
• CME Group — Keep a Trade Log