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Seeking Guidance on Beginning with Algo Trading/Quant Investing

Joined
4/9/23
Messages
7
Points
13
Hello,
I am a rising sophomore majoring in applied math. This summer, I set an ambitious goal for myself: develop a trading model in Python by summer's end. I took a dive into Python with the Data Scientist path on Dataquest. Although the course is inclined more towards data science, I've made it to part 3, specifically the "transform and reshape data" lesson. I feel more confident about my Python skills now.
Simultaneously, I embarked on my first book about quantitative trading: "The Evaluation and Optimization of Trading Strategies." After covering around 60 pages, I realized I grasped a general overview of the algo trading process. However, I struggled to see the actionable steps that can guide someone like me who wants to invest in the same way. The book didn't feel as instructive as the fundamental investing books I've read, where the progression from concepts to action was more evident.
From what I've gathered, the core steps in algo trading are:
  1. Design a profitable strategy.
  2. Backtest on historical data.
  3. Optimize and test rigorously.
  4. Implement the strategy once it's robust.
But here lies the rub: I have no practical experience in trading. I'm familiar with the principles of fundamental investing, but I'm a novice when it comes to trading, let alone futures, options, derivatives, etc.
To sum it up: I understand the what but not the how.
Considering my goal is to apply for quantitative internships soon, I'm keen to find resources, preferably books or courses, that can bridge this knowledge gap. If any of you have been in a similar situation or have advice on where to begin, I'd deeply appreciate your insights. I hope to leverage this knowledge not just for interviews but also to perhaps develop a project that can showcase my skills and passion for the field.
Thank you for your time and guidance!
P.S. If there are any beginner-friendly books or resources on the basics of trading or a gentle introduction to algo trading, please share!
 
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