---
title: "% ITM Strike Selection Explained"
description: "When to use % ITM Strike selection criteria"
url: https://help.optionsautotrader.com/en/articles/147-percent-itm-strike-selection-explained
collection: "Options Auto Trader 101"
updated: 2026-01-13
language: en
---

# % ITM Strike Selection Explained

When to use % ITM Strike selection criteria

## **% ITM (Percentage In the Money)**

The % ITM method selects a strike that is a specific percentage **in the money**, calculated relative to the current price of the underlying asset.

### **Example:**

If the current price of the underlying stock is **$200** and you set **10% ITM**, the auto trader will select a strike that is 10% away from the current price. For a **put option**, this would be **$220** (10% higher), and for a **call option**, it would be **$180** (10% lower).

-   **When to use**: This method is useful if you prefer to keep your strike selection relative to the current price, regardless of market fluctuations.