What are some of the first things I should do? What should I do to get familiar with the interface. Any tips, tricks etc...
Quote from TIKITRADER:
Here is the link for user guides, also use the sim/ paper platform to get used to it. If you didnt sign up for sim already you can through account management / trading access/ paper trader
http://individuals.interactivebrokers.com/en/general/education/UserGuides.php
http://www.interactivebrokers.com/en/software/tws/twsguide.htm
Quote from TIKITRADER:
Do you plan on using IB charting or will you select a charting platform ? IB charts, not terrible ... personally I chose Multicharts for that. There are many charting platforms to choose from for your needs.
Just get the paper trading going and open everything up you see to get used to it, learn how to configure it.
Go over your data plan make sure everything you will need is subscribed to.
Build the platform up to best fit your needs for trading. Keep in mind not to place live trades until you really have a feel for TWS to avoid any problems.
Quote from AAAintheBeltway:
I will just say that it is easy for a newbie to get confused with the order entry and sell when they mean to buy or vice versa. Make sure you understand what you are doing.