Trading bots promise to execute your strategies at the speed of light, but the real edge isn’t in the code — it’s in knowing what the code can and cannot do. This book cuts through the hype to deliver a clear-eyed, practical guide to algorithmic trading, from simple rule-based automations to modern machine learning systems. You’ll learn how bots actually analyze data, manage risk, and make decisions — and why most retail traders still lose money even with the best software. Step by step, you’ll understand how to design, backtest, and monitor a trading bot that works for your goals, without falling for get-rich-quick scams. With a focus on realism, safety, and long-term discipline, this is the foundation you need to navigate the bot landscape with your capital intact. Whether you’re a curious beginner or a seasoned trader exploring automation, this book will help you separate useful tools from dangerous fantasies. Part of The AI Trading Library.