Have you ever been right about a stock's direction but still lost money on an options trade? It's a common and confusing feeling. In this episode, we simplify the "algebra" of options trading by breaking down the core formulas for calculating profit and loss (P&L) on various options strategies. From single-leg calls and puts to more complex spreads, we'll give you the step-by-step guidance you need to understand exactly what drives your P&L. We also cover key concepts like commissions and fees and provide a crucial "sanity check" tip for using P&L calculators.

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Key Takeaways

• The first step to calculating P&L is knowing your strategy, as the formula is different for buying vs. selling and for calls vs. puts.
• Profit and loss are always based on the relationship between the stock's price, the option's strike price, and the premium paid or collected.
• For buyers of calls or puts, the maximum loss is always capped at the premium paid, but the potential profit is theoretically unlimited.
• For sellers of calls or puts, the maximum profit is capped at the premium collected, but the potential loss can be unlimited (on naked positions) or defined (in a spread).
• Commissions and fees (like per-contract fees) are often overlooked but must be factored into your calculations, especially on smaller or more frequent trades.

"Nothing makes you feel dumber than realizing you misread the max loss after you're already down four figures."

Timestamped Summary

• 1:14 The core formula for buying a call option
• 3:14 The difference and risk in selling a call option
• 4:48 Calculating P&L for a put option (buying and selling)
• 7:26 How to calculate max profit/loss on a spread
• 9:19 The "being right but still losing" Amazon example
• 13:20 The power of calculating P&L before you trade

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