Becoming a successful Galactic Trader involves keeping some records. I've come up with a simple form that you can print out. It will help you keep track of your most lucrative trade routes, especially those involving multiple stops. If you are running a big freighter your route may get depleted, but you can come back at a later date after things have had a chance to cycle.
This form will serve as a reminder of the good routes and it will also help you compare different routes.
The form is an Adobe Acrobat Reader document (.pdf), so you will need the free Acrobat Reader to use it. I'm also giving out a screenshot with a sample route.
Trade Route Form (PDF)
Screenshot (JPG)
There are a few tricks that will make things work more smoothly:
1) For each planet list the products you will sell before the products you will buy. You generally have to empty the ship before you can fill it.
2) I use the Buy and Sell columns relative to my own ship rather than the planet (opposite to the Trade Report listings). For me, it just seems to make more sense.
3) Use the Notes section between planet listings for reminders, items of interest and star hops between planets.
4) An easy way to get the total profit is to simply check your balance before you start the route and then subtract it from your balance when you finish the route. Your profit will change as prices fluctuate, but at least it gives you a basis for comparison and alerts you when the route is starting to dry up.
5) Print out some blank forms to make notes on as you explore.
