For beginners, the daily (1D) timeframe is widely recommended as the best starting point for trading forex because it offers clearer signals, reduces market noise, and helps new traders avoid impulsive decisions[3]. Trading the daily chart provides enough time to analyze market trends and patterns, making it easier to spot reliable opportunities while learning the fundamentals without feeling rushed or overwhelmed[4].
Once comfortable, some traders then transition to the 4-hour (4H) timeframe for more frequent trading opportunities, but it’s still best to avoid lower timeframes (such as 5 or 15 minutes) as these are usually considered too volatile and challenging for beginners[3]. Lower timeframes require quick decision-making and can lead to mistakes because of increased market “noise” and less reliable trade signals[4].
Personality and lifestyle play a role, so it’s helpful to experiment with different timeframes on a demo account. However, starting with daily timeframes allows for steady learning and reliable strategy development, which is crucial for long-term success[3][4].
In summary, the optimal approach for beginners is:
- Start with daily (1D) charts: Focus on identifying longer-term trends and stronger, more reliable signals.
- If seeking more trades, consider 4-hour (4H) charts after mastering daily setups.
- Avoid trading under 1-hour (1H) timeframes until you have significant experience, as these are much riskier and less forgiving of mistakes[5].
- Demo trade different timeframes to find what best suits your schedule and trading style[4].