EducationalBeginner

Glossary and Cheat Sheets (ICT/SMC Trading Reference)

A structured glossary and set of cheat sheets covering core terms, definitions, patterns, decision shortcuts, and model heuristics used in ICT / Smart Money Concepts (SMC) trading methodology. Organized by experience level (Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced) to support learning and quick reference.

Definition

A collection of defined terms, concise explanations, reference tables, mnemonic devices, and quick-reference rules related to ICT/SMC concepts. This “living reference” helps traders internalize terminology and apply pattern logic consistently.

Why It Matters

Consistent terminology and quick references reduce confusion, speed decision-making, and improve communication between traders and automated systems. It also provides structured learning pathways from foundational concepts to advanced execution tactics.

How to Identify

Use beginner sections for foundational definitions and quick recognition (e.g., what is a BOS, FVG, PD array).
Use intermediate sections for mapping combined concepts and series patterns (e.g., liquidity runs, session sequencing).
Use advanced sections for narrative frameworks, sequencing filters, and multi-level confluence heuristics.

How to Trade

Apply beginner cheat sheets when learning or confirming single signals.
Use intermediate cheat sheets to combine concepts into recognitions sets (e.g., raid → displacement → retrace).
Use advanced cheat sheets in planning execution (e.g., weekly narrative, killzone confluence, HTF alignment).

Common Confusions

Thinking glossary entries are trading signals.

Glossary terms define meanings and relationships. They are **not** standalone entry/exit signals. Terms should be used with model execution logic (e.g., FVG + BOS + retrace).

Mixing beginner and advanced definitions.

Always check the **experience level tag** (Beginner / Intermediate / Advanced) in the cheat sheet — and apply entries appropriate to your current model and timeframe.

Assuming cheat sheets replace practice.

Cheat sheets are memory aids. Consistent practice and backtesting are needed to internalize pattern recognition effectively.

Explore this concept in Aurora X

Interactive visual examples, AI-powered explanations, and a full library of 90+ ICT concepts.

Try Aurora X Free

Related Concepts

Dealing Range (Premium / Discount)Premium / Discount Zones Liquidity Sweep (Highs)Liquidity Sweep (Lows)Bullish Fair Value Gap Bearish Fair Value Gap Bullish Order Block Bearish Order Block Optimal Trade Entry (OTE)

More Educational Concepts

Accumulation & Distribution

AM / PM Sessions (NY Killzones in ET)

AMD — Accumulation, Manipulation, Distribution (Power of Three)

Backtesting Review

ICT Overview & Trading Philosophy

Income-Based Trading (ICT Style)

IPDA — Interbank Price Delivery Algorithm

Risk Management

Educational resource only. Not financial advice. Trading involves substantial risk of loss.