Any trader thats been around knows that one must be prepared before the trading day. My question is how do you prepare?. Do you read the Wall Street Journal?, Take notes on cnbc?, solve complex math problems.... I dont really do anything. I look at the over-all trend, draw a trendline here and there, s/r lines, and observe candle patterns.
I do everything else the night before. In the morning I just look at a list of gappers and try to relax and get ready for the day. i don't think you should really do your research in the am in terms of scanning charts, etc.
i find what i need to chase for the day in premkt; have all the symbols ready in less than a hour. i have no idea what am gonna trade 'till i see somethin' i like and i jump in.