A profitable strategy on a personal account might fail in an evaluation. You must adapt your risk-to-reward and frequency to meet the profit targets within the drawdown limits.
The Profit Target vs. Max Loss Offset
Most evaluations require a 10% profit target with a 10% total loss limit. This is a 1:1 ratio. To pass reliably, your strategy needs a win rate and risk-to-reward profile that can generate that 10% before hitting the -10% floor. We recommend a 1:2 RR strategy with a 45%+ win rate for the highest probability of passing.
Time Management
If a firm has no time limit (like The5ers or FTMO), use it. There is no prize for passing in 2 days. Slow, methodical growth reduces the chance of emotional errors.
Advanced Technique: De-risking
Once you reach 8% profit (on a 10% target), cut your risk by half. It is better to take 3 more days to get the last 2% than to risk a major pullback right at the finish line.