> ## Documentation Index > Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.trinigence.com/llms.txt > Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further. # Optional vs Required Components > Which parts of a Trinigence strategy are mandatory, which are optional, and why that matters. ## Why this distinction matters Not every part of a strategy is equal. Some components are **required** for a strategy to exist.\ Others are **optional**, but can dramatically change behavior and results. Understanding this distinction helps you: * write clearer trading ideas * avoid invalid strategies * know when ATI will ask questions vs infer safely *** ## Required components A strategy **cannot be created or backtested** without these components. ### 1. Market Every strategy must specify **what is being traded**. Example: ```text theme={null} Trade BTC/USDT. ``` Without a market: * price data cannot be loaded * indicators cannot be calculated * strategy is invalid *** ### 2. Timeframe Every strategy must specify **when logic is evaluated**. Example: ```text theme={null} Use the 1h timeframe. ``` Without a timeframe: * candle resolution is unknown * signals cannot be evaluated *** ### 3. Entry logic A strategy must define **at least one entry condition**. Example: ```text theme={null} Go long when RSI(14) crosses above 50. ``` Without entry logic: * no trades can ever open * backtesting is impossible *** ### 4. Exit logic Every entry must have a corresponding exit. Example: ```text theme={null} Exit with a 5% take profit and a 1% stop loss. ``` A strategy without exit logic is considered invalid. *** ## Optional components Optional components are **not required**, but strongly recommended. They refine behavior rather than define existence. *** ### Direction (long / short) If not explicitly stated: * ATI may infer direction * or default to long-only Explicit direction is always safer. *** ### Risk management extensions Beyond basic stop loss: * position sizing * exposure limits * trade limits These improve robustness but are not strictly required. *** ### Filters & schedules Examples: * trading days * sessions * volatility filters * higher timeframe filters If omitted: * strategy trades continuously * entry logic is always eligible *** ### Multi-timeframe logic Higher timeframe filters or confirmations are optional. They: * reduce noise * add context * increase complexity *** ## What ATI fills automatically ATI can safely infer some missing details. Typical examples: * reasonable default timeframe * implied direction * conservative risk assumptions However, ATI will **never guess**: * exits * market symbol * contradictory logic See exactly what can and cannot be inferred. *** ## When ATI asks for clarification ATI will stop and ask when: * required components are missing * logic is ambiguous * multiple interpretations exist * exits are undefined This prevents silent failures and misleading results. *** ## Common misunderstandings Filters refine behavior but are not mandatory for a valid strategy. Basic risk control is mandatory. Advanced risk rules are optional. Exits define outcomes and are never guessed. *** ## Best practices * Always define required components explicitly * Add optional components gradually * Treat exits and risk as first-class logic * Use ATI questions as guidance, not friction See how all components fit together. *** ## What to read next Write clearer ideas with fewer assumptions. See what users forget most often. Return to the big picture. See how structure affects results. Required components define *existence*.\ Optional components define *quality*.