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Futures Basics·Beginner· 3 min

Tick size & point value

The smallest unit price can move — and what it's worth in dollars.

Tick vs point

A point is a full 1.00 move in price. A tick is the smallest allowed move: 0.25 for both NQ and MNQ. So 4 ticks = 1 point.

Dollar value of a tick

NQ: 1 tick = $5. MNQ: 1 tick = $0.50. Multiply by ticks moved to get your P&L.

Why it matters for stops

A 20-tick stop on NQ risks $100 per contract. On MNQ, the same stop risks $10. Always translate your stop distance into dollars before entering.

Watch it on the chart
Chart breakdown
PRICE LADDER · MNQ18000.00+1 point = 4 ticks = $2.0017999.75+1 tick = $0.5017999.50+1 tick = $0.5017999.25+1 tick = $0.5017999.00+1 point = 4 ticks = $2.0017998.75+1 tick = $0.5017998.50+1 tick = $0.5017998.25+1 tick = $0.5017998.00+1 point = 4 ticks = $2.00
Close-up of an NQ chart with each tick labeled with its dollar value.
Key takeaways
  • 4 ticks = 1 point on NQ / MNQ.
  • NQ tick = $5. MNQ tick = $0.50.
  • Convert every stop into dollars before entering.
  • Small tick math errors compound fast.
Quick check

You take a 12-tick stop on 2 MNQ contracts. What's your dollar risk?

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Educational simulation only. Not financial advice. Prop firm rules vary between companies — always read the official rules of the specific firm before trading.