TradingView is the world's most popular charting platform — and it's perfect for scalping. Whether you're using a free or paid plan, adding a scalping indicator takes less than 5 minutes. This guide walks you through the entire process, from opening TradingView to placing your first signal-based trade.
Step 1: Open TradingView and Select Your Chart
Go to TradingView.com and log in (or create a free account). Then:
- Click "Chart" in the top navigation
- In the symbol search bar, type your desired ticker — e.g., BTCUSD, XAUUSD, or EURUSD
- Select the appropriate data source (Coinbase, Binance, OANDA, etc.)
Step 2: Set the 1-Minute Timeframe
For scalping, you need the 1-minute chart:
- Click the timeframe selector in the toolbar (it usually says "1D" for daily)
- Select "1" under the minutes section
- Your chart will now show 1-minute candles
Pro tip: Bookmark your chart layout with the 1-minute timeframe so you don't have to reset it each session.
Step 3: Add the Scalping Indicator
If you're using a private/invite-only indicator (like the WTG Precision Scalper):
- Click the "Indicators" button in the toolbar (or press /)
- Go to the "Invite-only scripts" tab
- Find the indicator and click to add it to your chart
- The buy/sell signals will now appear directly on your candlestick chart
If you don't see the indicator yet, the creator needs to grant you access using your TradingView username. This is standard for premium indicators.
Step 4: Configure Your Chart Layout
Optimize your chart for scalping with these settings:
- Chart type: Candlestick (most information per candle)
- Background: Dark theme — easier on the eyes during long sessions
- Grid lines: Off — reduces visual clutter
- Scale: Auto scale — keeps the price centered
- Timezone: Set to ET (Eastern Time) to align with the NY session
Optional: Add Volume
Volume confirms signal strength. Add the built-in "Volume" indicator and look for above-average volume on entry signals — it means institutional participation.
Step 5: Understand the Signals
Most scalping indicators use visual overlays to show entries. Common signal types:
- Buy signal — typically a green arrow or marker below the candle, indicating a long entry
- Sell signal — typically a red arrow or marker above the candle, indicating a short entry
- TP1 / TP2 lines — horizontal levels showing where to take partial and full profits
- Stop loss level — where to place your stop to limit downside risk
Step 6: Place Your First Trade
- Wait for a signal during the New York session (7:00–12:00 ET)
- Confirm with volume — is the signal candle backed by above-average volume?
- Enter the trade on your broker platform (or use TradingView's built-in Paper Trading to practice)
- Set TP1 — close 50% of the position at the first target
- Move stop to breakeven after TP1 is hit
- Set TP2 — let the remaining 50% ride to the second target
If you're new to scalping, start with TradingView's Paper Trading mode. It simulates real trades without risking real money.
Tips for Your First Week
- Only trade the NY session — don't try to trade signals outside the 7:00–12:00 ET window
- Start with one ticker — master BTC or Gold before adding more
- Screenshot every trade — review your entries at the end of each week to identify patterns
- Don't skip TP1 — locking in partial profits is what makes the system profitable long-term
Get the WTG Precision Scalper on TradingView
Our indicator generates automated buy/sell signals with built-in TP1 & TP2 targets. Just add it to your 1-minute chart and start trading.
Get Access Now →Conclusion
Setting up a scalping indicator on TradingView is straightforward — the platform is built for exactly this. Choose your ticker, set the 1-minute timeframe, add the indicator, and follow the signals during the NY session. With the right indicator and proper discipline, you can be up and running in under 10 minutes.