At first glance, the idea that “all positions should be the same size” seems logical. It creates consistency, simplifies execution, and helps remove emotion from decision-making. But in reality, rigidly using the same position size across all trades can limit your performance and distort your risk profile.

Let’s explore when equal sizing makes sense—and when it doesn’t.

Same Size ≠ Same Risk

If you always trade, for example, 1 lot regardless of the trade setup, then:

• A trade with a tight stop-loss risks far less than one with a wide stop
• A highly volatile market may carry more hidden risk than a calm one
• Your true risk exposure varies dramatically—even if the size doesn’t

This undermines your ability to control drawdowns and track strategy effectiveness.

Professionals Focus on Risk Per Trade—Not Fixed Size

Instead of choosing a fixed lot size, smart traders size their positions based on:

• Percentage of account at risk (e.g. 1% per trade)
• Distance to stop-loss (in pips, points, or price levels)
• Volatility of the asset (ATR or standard deviation)
• Quality of the setup (some strategies allow for scaling based on conviction)

This ensures that each trade carries equal risk, even if the trade size varies.

When Fixed Size Can Be Useful

Fixed size does have its place—particularly for beginners. It can help:

• Build confidence while learning execution
• Simplify journaling and review
• Reduce decision fatigue around risk and sizing

But as your skill develops, fixed size becomes a limitation, not a strength.

Dynamic Sizing Improves Performance and Consistency

Adjusting size based on setup quality and stop-loss distance allows you to:

• Keep risk per trade consistent
• Increase size strategically when the edge is stronger
• Avoid overexposure during uncertain conditions
• Scale your strategy as your account grows

This is how professional traders maintain long-term edge.

Conclusion: All Positions Should Carry Equal Risk—Not Equal Size

Making all positions the same size may feel consistent, but it often leads to inconsistent risk. Real consistency comes from dynamic sizing based on risk, not routine.

To learn how to size your trades the right way—based on account size, market volatility, and strategy strength—explore our Trading Courses designed to help traders build smarter systems and disciplined execution.