A market order buys now at the going price. A limit order waits for your price. You only make money when you sell for more than you paid. Until then it is just a number on paper.
Your pretend order · buy a stock at $100
Shares to buy10
Only buy at this price or lower$97
The price wanders through the day. Today's low is $96.
What happens
Your limit order to buy 10 shares
Filled at $97
You paid $970
What just happenedThe price fell to $97, at or below your limit, so your order filled at $97. You waited and got a better price.
Selling · how you actually make money
Price moves from $100 to$115 (+15%)
−30%0+30%
You bought 10 shares at $100. Slide the price, then switch to Sold.
Your 10 shares are worth
$1,150
+$150 on paper
What just happenedWhile you hold, the gain or loss is only on paper. It can change tomorrow. You only make or lose the money for real when you sell.