Comparing Minimum Trading Days Across Prop Evaluations

When I compare prop evaluations, I look at two clocks: calendar days and trading days. They are not interchangeable. A 30-calendar-day window sounds generous until I subtract weekends and holidays. A 10-trading-day minimum can feel tighter because I have to be active enough to count days without forcing trades.

I used to focus on the profit target first. Now I read the minimum trading days and deadline together. If a rule says I need at least five trading days but gives me 30 calendar days, I can space entries and still meet the count. If it says three trading days inside a 10-calendar-day window, I need a plan before the window opens. The deadline pressure changes my behavior more than the target does.

Here is the simple table I keep for hypothetical evaluations:

I check three things against the table. First, whether a day counts only when I open and close a trade, or whether any position counts. Second, whether the provider uses exchange sessions or its own server time. Third, whether the minimum is a pass requirement or just a condition before payout. Those details are usually in the FAQ, not the headline.

I also avoid treating a discount as a reason to ignore a tight deadline. Say an evaluation costs $150 after a code; a rushed rule set can cost me more in reset fees and time. Before I commit, I compare current offers at prop firm discount codes, then I go back to the provider’s own terms for the version I am buying. Terms change, so I check the date on the page and save a copy.

My rule is simple: count the days I can actually trade, not the days on the calendar. If the numbers do not fit my schedule, I skip that evaluation.

— Alex Morgan