Premarket gap list in Trade Ideas: a daily workflow¶
The point of a premarket gap list is not “find the perfect trade”. It’s to build a clean universe so your morning isn’t random.
This page shows a repeatable workflow: - build a gap list that’s tradable (not junk) - rank it so you can focus - carry it into the open without starting over
If you want the base Top List build first: - Top List Window: build a high-quality gap list
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High-quality gap list template (Cloud)¶
Use this as a starting point for your “high quality gappers” Top List window:
Load it inside the Trade Ideas app¶
- In Trade Ideas, go to
File→Load from Cloud… - Paste the full URL into the “Import shared window, layout, or collaborate link” box
- Click
Load
Then save your own copy (with your naming/versioning) so you can tweak without breaking the baseline.
Step 1 — Define your lane (before you look at gappers)¶
Premarket is full of garbage if you don’t filter.
Typical lane constraints: - price range you can trade - minimum liquidity threshold (dollar volume / volume today) - avoid extreme illiquid names unless that’s your niche
Step 2 — Rank by what matters premarket¶
Premarket “importance” is usually driven by: - gap % - relative volume / volume today - liquidity
Don’t overthink it. Make it readable.
Step 3 — Create 2 lists, not 20¶
My recommendation: - Primary watchlist: the best 10–25 names - Secondary: “maybe” names (or names for later)
If you create 200 names, you created noise.
Premarket scanner quality rules (quick audit)¶
Before the open, verify your list passes these checks:
- Majority of names have real liquidity (not just one print)
- Gap is supported by participation, not just headline shock
- Universe is small enough to review in real time
- Your first-hour alert workflow is prepped before the bell
If this fails, tighten filters before adding more symbols.
Step 4 — Carry the list into the open (alerts, not constant staring)¶
Once the market opens, the list changes quickly.
Two options: - keep scanning (Top List) - turn it into signals (Alert Window)
I prefer: alerts + review. - Alert Window tutorial
Step 5 — Save the list/layout so tomorrow is easier¶
Save your windows/layout to cloud so you can reuse the workflow daily: - Trade Ideas Cloud tutorial
FAQ¶
What is a gap list?¶
A gap list is a list of symbols trading significantly above or below their prior close. It’s commonly used to find “stocks in play”.
Why is my premarket gap list empty?¶
Usually because filters are too tight (liquidity, price range, time window) or because the market is quiet. See: Empty gap list troubleshooting.
Next¶
Next step
Turn this into a repeatable workflow
If you only do one thing next, tighten your lane and reduce noise. That's how Trade Ideas becomes usable.
