What is scalping in day trading?

@jaylin.bartell 

Scalping is a short-term trading strategy used by day traders to make small profits from small price movements throughout the day. Traders who engage in scalping aim to buy a security and then quickly sell it for a small profit, often within minutes or seconds. They capitalize on the bid-ask spread, which is the difference between the highest price a buyer is willing to pay (bid) and the lowest price a seller is willing to accept (ask). By conducting frequent and rapid trades, scalpers accumulate their profits from these small price differentials.

@jaylin.bartell 

Scalping requires active monitoring of the market and quick execution of trades. Traders often use leverage to amplify their potential gains, as the small price movements may not yield significant profits without it. However, leverage also increases the risk involved in scalping.

Scalping can be applied to various financial instruments, such as stocks, currencies, commodities, and futures. It is a high-intensity trading strategy that requires discipline, focus, and a solid understanding of technical analysis. Traders rely heavily on technical indicators, charts, and real-time market data to identify short-term price movements and make fast trading decisions.

While scalping can be highly profitable, it also carries risks. The fast-paced nature of scalping leaves little room for error, and traders must carefully manage their positions to minimize losses. Additionally, scalpers may face challenges related to transaction costs, slippage, and liquidity.