Most NQ traders lose money because they're trading noise instead of structure. Here's a framework I use every single session.

1. Previous Day High/Low (PDH/PDL)

These are the most reliable reaction levels on NQ. When price tests PDH in the first 30 minutes, you'll often see a rejection or a clean break-and-retest. If you're not marking these, you're flying blind.

2. The Opening Range (first 15 min)

The 9:30-9:45 range sets the tone. A break above = long bias. Break below = short bias. It's not a guarantee, but it filters out 80% of bad trades. Combine with volume and you've got a real edge.

3. VWAP + Standard Deviations

VWAP isn't just an indicator — it's where institutions are pricing in. First touch of VWAP after a trending move is almost always a trade. The +1/-1 standard deviations act as magnets during range days.

Most traders overcomplicate this. Start with these three and you'll already be ahead of 90% of the people staring at 15 indicators.

If you want daily setups with these exact levels mapped out, plus real-time signals during market hours — that's what Futures Edge is built for.