5 Best Options Trading Courses in 2024
Updated April 11, 2024
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- A list of the Top Options Trading Courses for December 2024:
- Comparison Chart of the Best Options Trading Courses for December 2024
- Description of the Best Options Trading Courses for December 2024
- 3 Main Advantages to Trading Options
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- What to Look For in an Options Trading Course
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- How to Get the Most From Your Options Trading Course
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Final Thoughts
A list of the Top Options Trading Courses for December 2024:
Comparison Chart of the Best Options Trading Courses for December 2024
Provider
| Course Type Online, self-paced learning | Focus Forex trading education, applicable to other forms of trading | Features One Core Program, personalized mentorship, practical application, resource library | ||
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| Course Type Online Video Courses | Focus General Trading | Features Video lessons, strategies, technical analysis | ||
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| Course Type Online Video Courses | Focus Day Trading, Swing Trading | Features Video tutorials, live trading examples | ||
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| Course Type Online self-paced learning | Focus Fundamentals, strategies, practical application | |||
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| Course Type Online Courses, Webinars | Focus Various (Forex, Stocks, CFDs) | Features Educational resources, trading webinars |
Options trading is often considered to have one of the steepest learning curves of all forms of investment.
That learning curve is not insurmountable, however, when you have a well-written options trading course under your belt.
An option is a derivative because its value is based on that of the underlying asset.
It is a contract that permits you to buy or sell the underlying asset, such as stocks and shares, at a pre-negotiated price on or before a set date. The option contract carries no obligation to buy or sell.
The trader may simply allow the contract to expire and lose their investment.
There are two types of options:
- A ‘call’ option to buy
- A ‘put’ option to sell
Description of the Best Options Trading Courses for December 2024
Now that you know how an options stockmarket trading course might benefit you and what to look for when making your choice, here are our best options trading courses in 2024.
1. Asia Forex Mentor
Pros
- Multiple lessons spread over video format
- High quality
- Self-paced with lifetime access
- Covers a wide range of lesson topics
- Useful examples throughout the course
Cons
- Those who have already traded could struggle to grasp Mr Chew’s way of thinking
- Expensive
Asia Forex Mentor, established in 2008 by Ezekiel Chew, is a comprehensive forex trading education platform. While its primary focus is on forex trading, the skills and techniques taught are versatile and can be applied to various markets, including cryptocurrencies, stocks, indexes, commodities, and options.
This platform is acclaimed for its educational offerings, earning a strong reputation for delivering thorough and impactful forex trading training.
Its flagship program, the AFM Proprietary One Core Program, encompasses 26 in-depth lessons distributed across 63 videos.
These lessons encompass a broad spectrum of forex trading topics, such as fundamental analysis, chart reading, diverse trading strategies, and the psychology of trading.
Designed for self-paced learning, the course caters to individuals with different schedules, including those employed full-time. Ezekiel Chew, the founder, is celebrated for his deep knowledge and extensive experience in forex trading.
He personally provides mentorship in the program, offering tailored guidance and support to each student. This direct mentorship aspect distinguishes Asia Forex Mentor from other online trading education platforms.
Additionally, the platform underscores the importance of practical application in learning. It integrates live trading demonstrations and analyses of actual market scenarios into the curriculum.
This practical approach is intended to equip students with hands-on experience and the necessary skills to adeptly maneuver through the complexities of the forex market.
2. Thomas Kralow
Pros
- Comprehensive trading program
- Expert technical analysis and market knowledge
- Learn money management abilities and strategies
- A well-structured and transparent course
- Thomas Kralow is a highly regarded trader
- Start with a Free webinar
- Student testimonials and authentic program reviews
- Recognized by Nasdaq, Daily Express and Bloomberg
Cons
- Even though you receive a diploma, it may not be recognised by a company like a bachelor’s or master’s degree will be
- You may be better off pursuing a degree
Best for: Traders who want to learn comprehensive trading strategies, including options trading, from an experienced trader
Free or paid: Both options are available
Self-paced or instructor led: Self-paced
Thomas Kralow, known for his comprehensive trading education programs, offers educational content primarily centered around general trading concepts, which can include a variety of financial instruments and markets.
Here are some key elements typically found in Thomas Kralow's trading courses, which might be relevant for someone interested in options trading:
- Foundational Knowledge: Kralow's courses often start with the basics of trading, which is crucial for any type of trading, including options. This foundational knowledge can include understanding market dynamics, different types of financial instruments, and how trading platforms work.
- Technical and Fundamental Analysis: His courses likely cover technical analysis (studying charts, patterns, and technical indicators) and fundamental analysis (evaluating the underlying factors affecting a market or asset). Both types of analysis are important in options trading for making informed decisions.
- Risk Management: Effective risk management strategies are a key focus, which is particularly important in options trading due to its inherent risks. Understanding how to manage and mitigate risk is essential for any trader.
- Trading Psychology: Kralow emphasizes the psychological aspects of trading, such as emotional control and discipline. The psychological component is critical in options trading, where decision-making under uncertainty can be challenging.
- Practical Application: His courses often include practical assignments and simulations. While these may not be specific to options, they are valuable for applying theoretical knowledge in a more practical context.
- Customized Learning Paths: The courses might offer personalized feedback and mentorship, allowing for a more tailored learning experience that could be applied to various types of trading, including options.
For those specifically interested in learning about options trading, it would be advisable to also seek out courses and resources dedicated to this area.
Options trading involves unique strategies, terminologies (like puts, calls, strike price, etc.), and risk considerations that are best learned through targeted education. Additionally, staying updated on any new courses or updates from Thomas Kralow or other reputable trading educators would be beneficial.
3. Shifting Shares
Pros
- Self-paced video format
- Lifetime exclusive support group access
- Detailed insights with practical application
- Profitable patterns backed by examples
- Single payment with no recurring subscription
Cons
- No forex or crypto, UK stocks only
- No free trial
Best for: Traders who are looking for a comprehensive and informative education
Free or paid: Both options are available
Self-paced or instructor led: Self-paced
Shifting Shares offers a comprehensive guide on options trading in the UK, providing valuable insights for both beginners and experienced traders.
This guide covers various aspects of options trading:
- Understanding Options Trading: Options are financial derivatives that allow speculation on the price movement of an underlying asset without owning it. This includes assets like stocks, commodities, or indices. Options trading offers the flexibility to profit from both rising and falling market scenarios.
- Benefits of Options Trading: Options trading allows for leverage, meaning controlling a larger position with a smaller investment, and offers potential for income generation and portfolio hedging. Strategies like selling covered calls can generate income, while buying options can protect against market downturns.
- Risks Involved: It involves significant risks, including the potential for rapid capital loss and the time sensitivity of options. A deep understanding of market dynamics and factors influencing option prices is crucial to mitigate these risks.
- Getting Started: To start trading options, traders need access to a reliable platform with comprehensive options trading functionality, including real-time data and advanced charting tools. Educational resources like tutorials and webinars are also essential.
- Setting Up a Trading Account: Choosing a suitable trading platform and opening a trading account are initial steps. It's important to select a broker regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) in the UK for security and regulatory compliance.
- Understanding the UK Options Market: Familiarity with the UK options market, including the types of options available (like European and American options), expiration cycles, and contract specifications, is crucial for informed trading decisions.
This guide provides a foundational understanding of options trading, emphasizing the importance of education, risk management, and informed decision-making in this complex and potentially lucrative field.
4. AvaTrade
Pros
- Comprehensive range of topics
- Accessible online format
- Variety of learning materials
- Practical application
- Free resources
Cons
- Limited interactive learning
- Generalized content
- Self-discipline required
The options trading courses at AvaTrade typically cover foundational knowledge about options, including:
- What options are & how they work
- Different types of options (like calls and puts)
- Basic options trading strategies
They might also delve into more advanced topics like options pricing, the Greeks and complex trading strategies.
AvaTrade's educational resources are usually available in various formats, such as online articles, e-books, webinars, and video tutorials. This multi-format approach caters to different learning styles and preferences.
AvaTrade often hosts webinars and live trading sessions that can include topics on options trading. These sessions are valuable as they may cover current market trends, trading strategies and real-time analysis, often with the opportunity for participants to ask questions.
The courses are likely to offer practical insights into the world of options trading, including how to use AvaTrade’s platforms for trading options, understanding the risks involved, and how to use options as part of a broader trading strategy.
5. IG
Pros
- Highly regulated
- MetaTrader 4 (MT4)
- Over 10,000 instruments
- Available in the UK and US
- 24/7 customer support
Cons
- High fees
- No deposit compensation scheme for US accounts
- No copy trading
- Inactivity fees
Best for: Traders who are looking for a comprehensive and well-structured education
Free or paid: Free
Self-paced or instructor led: A mix of self-paced and instructor-led
IG offers a comprehensive CFD Options Trading Course through its IG Academy.
This advanced-level course is designed to provide a thorough understanding of options trading, particularly with CFDs (Contracts for Difference).
The course aims to introduce participants to options trading, covering how options work, their benefits, and associated risks. It is designed to help traders find opportunities in various market conditions, including bullish, bearish, or even static markets.
The course includes several lessons, each focusing on different aspects of options trading:
- Introduction to options
- Benefits of trading options
- Pricing of options
- Managing the risks of options trading
- Practical examples of buying and selling options
- Using the IG platform for option trading
- Introduction to options Greeks
- Simple trading strategies like delta trading, straddle, and strangle
The course is structured into short, easy-to-digest lessons, combined with practical, interactive exercises. It features engaging videos and graphics and provides a free demo account for practicing new skills. There’s also a quiz to check participants' understanding.
3 Main Advantages to Trading Options
So, why would you trade options instead of simply buying shares, commodities or any actual trading asset?
There are three main advantages to trading options instead of the underlying asset:
1. More Cost-effective
Purchasing an option will cost you less money than buying the equivalent amount of the underlying asset.
For example, if you bought 100 shares priced at $25, you would pay $2,500.
However, if you purchased an option for the same where the premium is $10 and the contract is for 100 shares, you would only pay $1,000.
2. Lower Level of Risk
Options trading can carry a lower level of risk because of the smaller investment (in comparison to buying an equivalent amount of the underlying asset) and the setting of the value to buy or sell at a particular price regardless of market behavior.
3. Higher Returns
The potential for earning a higher return is created by the simple fact that your investment in purchasing an options contract is lower.
You spend less, so you put less money at the risk of loss.
You might also be interested in The Best Stock Trading Courses
Get Better at Trading with Asia Forex Mentor Course
What to Look For in an Options Trading Course
There are many options trading courses available, so what factors should you look for when choosing the right course for you?
Covers the Fundamentals of Options Trading
Options trading can be a difficult topic to get your head around, so it is important that any course you take covers the basics of this form of investment.
By the end of the course, you should be in no doubt as to exactly how options trading works, what the benefits and risks are, and how best you can use this strategy to your advantage.
Real-life Simulations
A real-life market simulation is an online tool that allows you to practice your trading skills without investing real money.
The best options trading courses will offer access to real-life simulations so that you can not only practice your trading but also use real-life scenarios to understand how options trading fits in with trading in general.
Affordable
You will find both free and paid options trading courses on the market. As a starting point, you might like to choose a free or lower priced course to get your footing in the subject matter.
If you feel you need to learn more after that, a higher priced course may offer further and more detailed insight.
Taught by Industry Professionals
A course taught by an industry professional, for example, an individual who is qualified to talk about the topic of options trading and also has experience in the area, is more likely to offer you the in-depth and informed knowledge you need.
Self Paced
As you will generally be fitting your course around your day job, it is probably more helpful to take a course that is self-paced.
Only consider signing up for an options trading course that has a strict schedule and deadlines if you can adhere to them.
Be realistic about how much study time you can commit to each week.
How to Get the Most From Your Options Trading Course
Once you decide which options trading course to take, here are our tips on how to get the most out of it:
Step 1. Review Your Learning
Check what you have learned at the end of each course section. If you are unsure about any element, go over it again.
Step 2. Use All the Resources
Take full advantage of any resources and tools included in the course.
Step 3. Do Your Revision
If you can revisit course material and resources, do it. If access is online, bookmark it for future reference.
Step 4. Manage Your Time Well
Do not choose a course that demands a greater time commitment each week than you can manage.
Step 5. Try a Demo Account
Before you dive into options trading, do the sums on paper first or use a demo account to check your knowledge.
If you are completely new to options trading and options strategies, the Udemy course is a great way of learning the very basics. It offers packages on options trading basics which includes a three-course bundle.
It also offers newcomers complete training on option spreads and how you can integrate options trading into your credit spread.
Option Alpha is one of the best comprehensive courses available as it offers three guided tracks that are catered towards beginners, intermediate-level traders and advanced operators.
Udemy is one of the best trading courses for beginners because of its novice packages.
One of these is the SharperTrades LCC which has a total of 148,006 students enrolled in the program. Option Strategies Insider also offers a comprehensive beginner's course for free.
Under this package, you will have both beginners and intermediate knowledge of options trading strategies, webinar training and an FAQ database so you can learn about challenging theories quickly.
Because most trading is done online, it is difficult to locate trading courses that are offered in person. However, this is not to say they do not exist.
The Stock Whisperer is a community-based platform where users interact with each other on their trading information.
Stefanie Kammerman, the founder of The Stock Whisperer, offers a two-week boot camp for anyone interested in learning trading from day-trading consultants. Another example is the London Academy of Trading.
This offers free courses and specialist financial courses that will educate students on options trading.
If you are looking to pursue trading as a career, the strongest route is through university programs dedicated to finance and economics.
Sometimes a book is a great way to learn the ins and outs of options trading. Some great texts on trading include Options Trading Crash Course by Frank Richmond which is a great resource for absolute beginners.
Richmond’s book aims to get readers into trading in the space of seven days. Another choice is Options as a Strategic Investment by Lawrence McMillan.
This text is considered a classic in options trading and will give you some of the best insights into index trading options, market fluctuation and volatility, and information on hedge funds.
Here at Wikijob we offer expert research and insights into trading and options trading.
However, if you are wanting to broaden your knowledge even further, Investopedia.com is a great resource to learn about stock trading and options trading.
Stockbrokers.com also offers good popular guides and insightful reviews on some of the biggest trading markets.
Forums like Quora and Reddit are also helpful as it is community-based information to which you can contribute.
Simpler Options 101 is a great paid resource that offers all the fundamental knowledge you need to reach an advanced stage.
Its e-learning module is priced at $497, and you will learn about the fundamental concepts of options trading, including a two-day recorded live trading exercise. This will allow users to directly integrate the skills they have learned.
Simpler Options 101 also offers a range of mastery courses so you can become specialized in one area.
YouTube is the home of some of the best information on options trading, and most of the videos are completely free. It is hard to know which courses are legitimate and worth your time.
The users Projectfinance and 2ndSkies Trading are great for beginners and those wanting insight into market fluctuations. Sky View Trading is also a great resource because of its bitesize videos.
You can jump in and out of different options trading concepts without having to stress about sitting for hours.
The videos on Skillshare are broken down into digestible segments so you can take in the information easily.
They are mostly run by the content creator David Eaves who has over five years of options trading experience.
The videos are tailored for beginners, and they are easy to follow.
However, the content is limited. Skillshare’s videos on options trading are ideal for anyone wanting a crash course.
Udemy offers a wide range of courses for both beginners and experts. They are also reasonably priced, so you do not have to put down a big payment to get the information you need to start trading.
For beginners, the best courses are ‘Options Trading in plain English for Beginners’ and ‘Options Trading for Rookies: Complete Guide to Stock Options'.
If you are looking for something that caters to more specialized strategies the courses ‘Advanced Options Concepts – Probability, Greeks, Simulation’ and ‘Master Iron Condors – Double the Credit for Half the Risk’ are great for giving you that expertise.
Final Thoughts
Options trading can be highly profitable, but getting your head around the strategy and terminology can be difficult to begin with.
The right course will equip you with the level of knowledge you need to move into this area of trading.
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