> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.mirrorpip.com/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# What is Mirror Trading? How Mirrorpip Copies Trades

> Mirror trading replicates an expert trader's live positions into your own exchange account automatically. Learn how Mirrorpip executes this in real time.

Mirror trading is a strategy where your trading account automatically replicates the live positions of an expert trader in real time. On Mirrorpip, these experts are called Mirror Leaders. When a Mirror Leader opens, adjusts, or closes a trade, Mirrorpip instantly executes the same action in your connected exchange account — proportionally sized to your available balance.

## How mirror trading works on Mirrorpip

When you follow a Mirror Leader, Mirrorpip monitors that leader's trading activity around the clock. Each time they place a trade, Mirrorpip:

1. **Detects the action** — a new position is opened, modified, or closed by the Mirror Leader.
2. **Calculates your position size** — your trade is scaled proportionally based on your account balance relative to the leader's.
3. **Executes the trade** — Mirrorpip places the same trade in your connected exchange account using your API key.

The entire process happens in real time, so your portfolio closely tracks the Mirror Leader's moves without any manual input from you.

## Key characteristics

| Feature   | Detail                                                |
| --------- | ----------------------------------------------------- |
| Execution | Automatic, real-time                                  |
| Sizing    | Proportional to your balance                          |
| Control   | You can stop mirroring or close positions at any time |
| Custody   | Your funds stay in your own exchange account          |

## Mirror trading vs. copy trading

Mirror trading and copy trading are similar but differ in execution:

* **Mirror trading** (Mirrorpip): Trades are copied automatically and continuously in real time as the leader acts.
* **Copy trading**: Some platforms require manual approval or operate with a delay.

Mirrorpip's mirror trading is fully automated — you don't need to approve each trade.

<Note>
  Mirror trading involves market risk. Past performance of a Mirror Leader does not guarantee future results. Always review a leader's track record and set appropriate risk limits before mirroring.
</Note>

## What mirror trading is not

* **Not a managed account** — Mirrorpip does not manage your funds. You retain full control of your exchange account.
* **Not guaranteed profit** — Markets are volatile and Mirror Leaders can experience losses.
* **Not leverage by default** — Position sizing is proportional to your balance unless the leader trades with leverage on their own account.

## Next steps

* [Understand Mirror Leaders](/concepts/mirror-leaders) — learn who can become a Mirror Leader and what their profiles show
* [Risk management](/concepts/risk-management) — set limits to protect your capital