> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://basedapp.gitbook.io/docs/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://basedapp.gitbook.io/docs/trading/scalp-order.md).

# Scalp Orders

## What is a Scalp Order?

A scalp order is a specialized order type designed for rapid position entry and exit. It provides a streamlined interface for traders who need to open and close positions quickly within tight price ranges, making it ideal for short-term scalping strategies.

Unlike standard order forms, the scalp order panel displays both Long and Short sides simultaneously, allowing you to enter or exit in either direction without switching tabs.

<figure><img src="/files/JOIV0RP2MuaGsRziPEpL" alt="" width="375"><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

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## How Scalp Orders Work

{% stepper %}
{% step %}
**Set Your Size**

Enter the position size in the asset (e.g. BTC) or in USDC. Use the percentage slider to quickly allocate a portion of your available funds.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}
**Configure Ticks**

Set the number of **ticks** for each side. Ticks determine how far from the current price your order will be placed. A lower tick value means tighter entry closer to the market price.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}
**Choose Direction**

Click **Buy / Long** or **Sell / Short** to place your order. Both sides are visible at once, showing the estimated entry price for each direction.
{% endstep %}

{% step %}
**Optional: Reduce & TP/SL**

Enable **Reduce** to ensure the order only closes an existing position. Enable **TP/SL** to attach take profit and stop loss levels to the order automatically.
{% endstep %}
{% endstepper %}

***

## Key Features

* **Dual-side panel** — Long and Short entry are displayed side by side, so you can react instantly in either direction.
* **Tick-based pricing** — Set your entry offset in ticks rather than absolute prices, which is faster for rapid trading.
* **Hotkey support** — Assign hotkeys to the Buy/Long and Sell/Short buttons for one-click execution without using the mouse.
* **Reduce Only** — Available on both sides independently, preventing accidental position flips.
* **Built-in TP/SL** — Attach take profit and stop loss to each scalp order without opening a separate form.
* **Margin estimates** — Estimated liquidation price, order value, and margin required are shown for both sides before you place the order.

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## When to Use Scalp Orders

* Capturing small price movements in volatile markets
* Rapidly entering and exiting positions during high-frequency trading
* Trading around key support and resistance levels with tight entries
* Situations where speed matters more than precise limit price control

***

## Scalp Orders vs. Other Order Types

|                    | Scalp Order                  | Market Order        | Limit Order             |
| ------------------ | ---------------------------- | ------------------- | ----------------------- |
| **Speed**          | Fastest (dual-side, hotkeys) | Fast                | Slower (waits for fill) |
| **Price control**  | Tick-based offset            | No control          | Exact price             |
| **Best for**       | Rapid in-and-out             | Immediate execution | Targeted entries        |
| **TP/SL built-in** | Yes                          | No                  | Optional                |

{% hint style="info" %}
Scalp orders are optimized for speed and convenience. For larger positions or precise price targeting, consider using [Limit Orders](/docs/trading/types-of-order.md) or [Scale Orders](/docs/trading/scale-order.md) instead.
{% endhint %}