Crypto Trading Glossary
A reference for the metrics that decide whether a trading account grows or bleeds. Every term below is defined in plain language, with the formula, a quick crypto example, and why it matters once you start reviewing your own trades.
Most traders learn these words one painful loss at a time. The faster route is to understand what each number measures, then let a journal track it for you across every exchange.
Performance metrics
PnL (profit and loss)Your total gain or loss on a position or account.Realized vs unrealized PnLLocked-in profit versus paper profit on open trades.Win rateThe share of your trades that close in profit.Risk-reward ratioHow much you stand to make versus what you risk per trade.ExpectancyThe average dollar result you can expect per trade over time.
Risk metrics
Crypto-specific
Where the numbers come from
Reading definitions is step one. Step two is watching these metrics update live from your actual fills as trades close: win rate, R-multiple, drawdown, expectancy, funding-aware net PnL.