It is tough. I agree with you that trading, in any arena, is a tough game. What makes it harder in this realm is to decide what is a scam or not. For that reason, I skip it altogether.
My approach is I buy the big stuff because it is quality. I also have holding in smaller things but I researched the project, who is involved, and what the blockchain will be used for. When it is something I can believe in, then I will put some money into it.
With over 1,000 coins, I can tell you I have no idea what 99% of them are. Some might do well but most will collapse totally.