All terms
Definition
Tick
A tick is the smallest amount a futures contract can move.
Quick take
The smallest amount a contract can move.
Keep this in mind every time you see tick on the chart — context is everything.
Did You Know?
On the E-mini S&P 500 (ES), each tick is worth $12.50 per contract — small moves add up fast.
Common Beginner Mistake
Ignoring tick value and being shocked when a 10-tick move against you turns into a much bigger dollar loss than expected.