|
How do I use the control Panel?
The control panel allows you to add new position and modify and archive existing positions, as well at other functions described below.
The trial edition of the program allows you to enter, update, delete, or refresh positions. The full edition includes controls for closing, printing, sorting, and archiving positions.
This button brings up the screen which allows you to enter a new position. The position may be long or short, and can be an option or a security holding other than an option. If you enter the option portion of a covered call, it is recommended that you also enter the underlying stock position, to avoid any error on your part in remembering the connection between the positions. Obviously the same applies to spreads and other combinations.
This brings back up the screen on which you entered the new data, and allows you to modify it. After making changes in this box, hit the Update button at the lower right of the box. Then save later. The update screen also allows you to account for a stock split in your holdings according to the split ratio defined to the right of the button. In case of a reverse split (reduction of number of holdings), enter a decimal value less than one.
Deletes the position that has been highlighted. Obviously you have to be careful to highlight the correct position before using this button!
We recommend that you hit the refresh button each time you start up the program. This updates the data, so you can be sure you are working with current data.
If you are going to work on the program, or fix an error, this will be useful. The complete edition includes the following additional controls:
Brings up the close dialog box. There are two elections: you can enter the relevant closing data, or you can select Expired, in which case the program assumes that the option expired without action on your part on the expiration date, with the resulting profit or loss based upon the original cost data. Thus, if it is a short position, the net premium is deemed fully earned. When you close a position and move it to the Closed This Year sheet, the date will continue to show in red until you hit the refresh button.
Sends the spreadsheet data from the sheet currently selected to the printer. You can select which columns are selected for printing in the Options screen. You see what will be printed before it goes to the printer. Hit the “Close” button to cancel the print request.
Opens a dialogue box giving you alternatives for your spreadsheet, including which columns are displayed, the number of days for alerts, and save alternatives.
The program permits the entry of multiple portfolios, which you name. You can use the Sort button to sort by program, or you can use the Portfolio button to look only at one portfolio at a time. When selecting a portfolio, the selection applies only to the sheet that is currently open. For example: you want to see positions closed this year for John; Select the Closed This Year tab on the bottom; Then select Portfolio from the control panel. Select John as the portfolio for which you wish to see the closed this year positions.
The Sort button allows you to organize the material in a number of ways. Typically one would sort by Company so that the data is in alphabetical order.
Archives closed positions. Positions closed last year are moved to the Archived Position sheet. Positions closed this year are moved to the Closed Last Year sheet.
If you install a new copy of the program, use this button to import your stock portfolio from the old to the new program.
- Closing the Control Panel
When viewing the screen, the control panel gets in the way, so click the top right close button (X) to close it.
|
