The position size field shows 0 until you enter a stop loss. EdgeFlo needs your stop loss distance to calculate how many lots, shares, or units to buy. This article explains how the risk calculator works and what to do if the field stays at 0.
The position size field, whether it says Lots, Shares, or Quantity, always starts at 0. It is not a default value. It is waiting for the information it needs to calculate correctly.
Why Position Size Starts at 0
EdgeFlo calculates your position size from your risk settings and your stop loss distance. Without a stop loss, the calculation cannot run.
The formula is: risk amount divided by stop loss distance, adjusted for the instrument's point or pip value. If there is no stop loss entered, the stop loss distance is zero, and the calculation produces no result. The field stays at 0.
How to Fix It
- Open the trade panel
- Enter your stop loss, either as a price level or as a distance in pips, points, or dollars depending on the asset
- The position size field updates immediately
Tip: You do not need to enter a take profit first. As soon as the stop loss is set, the position size calculates. Add your take profit after and the R:R ratio will update automatically.
What the Panel Shows at Each Stage
| State | Position Size | Dollar Risk | R:R |
|---|---|---|---|
| No SL entered | 0 | Not shown | Not shown |
| SL entered, no TP | Calculated | Shown | Not shown |
| SL and TP entered | Calculated | Shown | Calculated |
If the Position Size Is Still 0 After Entering a Stop Loss
If you have entered a stop loss and the field still shows 0, check the following:
- Stop loss is too close to entry: An extremely tight stop produces a position size that rounds to 0. Widen your stop to a level that reflects the instrument's actual movement.
- Risk setting is too low: If your risk per trade is set to a very small dollar amount, the resulting position size may be below the minimum lot or share size your broker accepts. Check your risk settings.
- Stop loss is on the wrong side: For a BUY order, the stop loss must be below the entry price. For a SELL order, it must be above. If the stop is on the wrong side, the calculator will not produce a valid result.
Warning: Do not enter a position size manually just to bypass the 0. If the calculator is showing 0, something is wrong with your inputs. Fix the underlying issue rather than overriding the output.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I enter a position size manually instead of using the calculator?
Yes. Click the lock icon next to the position size field to unlock it and type your own value. The dollar risk display will update to show what that size represents. However, if the calculator is returning 0, fixing your stop loss is the better path.
My lot size shows 0.00, not blank. What does this mean?
A 0.00 result usually means the calculated size is below the broker's minimum position size. This can happen if your risk amount is very small relative to your stop loss distance. Try widening your stop, increasing your risk per trade in Settings, or checking the minimum lot size for that instrument with your broker.
Does this work the same for all asset classes?
Yes. Whether the field is labeled Lots (Forex, Indices, Metals), Quantity (Crypto), or Shares (Stocks), the logic is the same: enter a stop loss and the calculator fills in the size. The field stays at 0 until a stop loss is provided.
Related Questions
- Why does the trade button show 0 lots?
- How do I enter a stop loss in EdgeFlo?
- Why is my calculated lot size smaller than expected?
- Can I place a trade without a stop loss in EdgeFlo?
- Why does the dollar risk field not display?
- How does EdgeFlo calculate position size for gold?
- Why is my share count showing 0 for a stock trade?
- What is the minimum lot size on my broker?
- Why is my R:R not calculating?
- Can I unlock the position size field and enter a manual value?
Need help? Contact EdgeFlo Support