Ben, what I have found is that I have to be willing to cut losses quickly. If I don't, I end up losing huge. This also seems to negate any gains I've made as well. While it may be frustrating, it can be a learning experience in losing stubbornness or even migrating to a set mentality. Stick to your strategy and make sure you have a plan for each trade. :)

I'm right there with you Ben... I have been studying longer than you have and I haven't made any good trades. I feel like I'm never prepared enough to start. I'm not sure what I'm missing either but it hasn't "Clicked" yet for me. I wanted to get a study group together in my home town but it hasn't been successful. I feel like bouncing ideas off other people in person would help tremendously (for me at least). Good luck and keep at it.

Do you keep a trade journal? It helps to write each trade out with the reasons for your gains and losses. This way you can try not to repeat the mistakes. I have had the same struggles but the more I write my mistakes and review them the more I feel confident in myself to make the right decision next time.

Not sure if this helps, try taking a look at Bollinger Bands 10, 1.5. It might help on your timing. Spend time looking at these. Notice how big moves, it takes a while for the lower band to catch up? Also, look at the midpoint line along the way. If you see a big move in a certain way on a daily chart, check out the same symbol on the 2 hour, 1 hour and 30 min chart. Always watch for the opposite side of the band when the moves are over. Hope this helps.