Reddit Day Trader Transitions to Simplified VWAP/Volume Profile System After ICT/SMC Struggles

This report examines a Reddit user’s three-year day trading journey, focusing on their transition from ICT/SMC (Inner Circle Trader/Smart Money Concepts) price action methods to a simplified system combining volume-weighted average price (VWAP) and volume profile [1]. The user abandoned ICT/SMC after realizing these methods only worked in hindsight, leading to an endless learning loop without measurable progress [1].

The new system uses three core components: 3-day VWAP as a macro market filter, daily session VWAP to confirm trend agreement, and volume profile (HVN/LVN shoulders) for entry signals, with volume price analysis (VPA) for additional confirmation [1]. The user primarily trades futures contracts (ES, GC) and sought community feedback on this approach [1].

Community responses to the system were mostly positive. One user noted similarities to Chris Drysdale’s methodology, emphasizing the effectiveness of combining VWAP with volume profile for robust setups [1]. Another praised the system’s simplicity, highlighting that it reduces subjectivity compared to Drysdale’s four-setup framework [1]. However, a dissenting view dismissed all price action methods as ineffective, though this received minimal support [1].

1. Subjectivity in Trading Systems
   : The user’s struggle with ICT/SMC underscores a common challenge in technical analysis—overly subjective methods can hinder progress by creating ambiguous rules that only “work” in retrospect [1]. Simplifying systems (as the user did) can help reduce decision paralysis and improve consistency.
2. Validity of VWAP+Volume Profile
   : Community recognition of the system’s alignment with Drysdale’s methodology suggests that combining VWAP (a real-time volume-weighted average) with volume profile (historical volume distribution) is a well-regarded approach in the day trading community [1].
3. Benefits of Community Dialogue
   : The user’s decision to share their system reflects the value of peer feedback in refining trading strategies; discussing methods publicly can enhance personal understanding while supporting others’ learning [1].

• The new system’s effectiveness is unproven over long-term, large-scale trading; short-term success does not guarantee consistent performance [0].
• Trading futures (ES, GC) involves inherent volatility and leverage risk, which can amplify gains or losses [0].
• Overreliance on specific indicators (VWAP, volume profile) may blind traders to broader market context [0].

• Community feedback can help the user refine the system’s rules, enhancing its robustness [0].
• Leveraging a methodology aligned with recognized traders (Drysdale) may provide a foundation for further optimization [0].
• Simplifying the system can reduce emotional bias, a key factor in trading success [0].

A Reddit day trader with three years of experience has transitioned from ICT/SMC price action methods to a simplified system combining 3-day VWAP, daily VWAP, volume profile, and VPA for futures trading (ES, GC). The user abandoned their previous approach due to hindsight bias and an endless learning loop. Community feedback noted the system’s similarity to Chris Drysdale’s methodology, praised its reduced subjectivity, and highlighted the effectiveness of combining VWAP with volume profile. Dissenting views on price action methods were minimal.