Triangle patterns are among the most popular chart patterns used by traders for predicting market trends. Understanding the various types of triangle patterns can boost your trading skills, allowing you to make better decisions on eToro. In this guide, we’ll cover the ins and outs of triangle patterns, including ascending, descending, and symmetrical triangles, and how to use them effectively in your trading strategies for 2023.
Key Takeaways
βTriangle patterns can help traders identify potential breakouts in market trends. |
βAscending, descending, and symmetrical triangles each signify different market scenarios. |
βImplementing triangle patterns in your trading strategies can increase your chances of success on eToro. |
What is a Triangle Pattern?
Table of content
- What is a Triangle Pattern?
- Types of Triangle Patterns
- π Ascending Triangle Pattern
- π Descending Triangle Pattern
- π Symmetrical Triangle Pattern
- Implementing the Triangle Pattern in Your Trading Strategies
- Enhancing Triangle Patterns with the MACD Indicator
- Putting Your Triangle Pattern Knowledge into Practice
- eToro Trading Education: β’ Learn more about eToro Tradingπ
- Trading Patterns:
- Portfolio Management:
- Trading Platform and Security:
- Fundamental Analysis:
- GENERAL RISK WARNING
- Author & Expert Trader - Financial Analyst :
A triangle pattern is a series of trend lines that form a triangle shape on a price chart. It consists of an upper trend line, created by connecting at least two higher highs, and a lower trend line, formed by connecting at least two lower lows. Triangle patterns can occur in uptrends, downtrends, or even during market consolidation, and can signify either a continuation or reversal of the trend, depending on the specific triangle formation.
Types of Triangle Patterns
There are three primary types of triangle patterns: ascending, descending, and symmetrical triangles.
π Ascending Triangle Pattern
Ascending triangles as the name suggests is a triangle that points upward. Immediately this means that the trend is likely to go bullish or uptrend.
This is a bullish triangle pattern that usually forms in an uptrend. The lows are connected by a diagonal trendline. However, the highs are connected by a horizontal line (resistance, touching two or more price highs. Below is an illustration of an ascending triangle for the stockΒ TSLAΒ (Tesla). When this pattern forms, itβs very likely that the uptrend will continue.
To draw an ascending triangle pattern on a chart, simply connect the higher highs with a horizontal line and the lower lows with a diagonal line. A breakout happens just as soon as the upper trend line is breached or broken.
π Descending Triangle Pattern
The descending triangle pattern is the bearish counterpart of the ascending triangle pattern. It often forms during a downtrend and signals a bearish outcome. To draw a descending triangle, connect the lower lows using a horizontal line and the higher highs with a diagonal line sloping downward. Just like ascending triangles, one of the trend lines in a descending triangle should always lie on a horizontal line.
The image above shows an actual example of a descending triangle pattern for the stock XLE. As soon as the triangle has been formed and the lower trend line has been broken, a very steep price drop has occurred.
According to many triangle pattern users, the range at which the triangle has been formed will dictate just how much the price will change. While this still needs to be verified, we can see in the example below that it almost matches the range of the triangle formation to the height of the price drop.
π Symmetrical Triangle Pattern
The symmetrical triangle pattern typically forms in volatile markets, where bullish and bearish trends compete. This pattern has symmetric sides, with both the upper and lower trend lines converging at nearly the same angle. A breakout occurs depending on which trend line is breached or broken.
The images below show a bullish symmetrical triangle pattern forΒ TESLAΒ and a bearish symmetrical triangle pattern forΒ NATGAS.
Implementing the Triangle Pattern in Your Trading Strategies
To effectively use triangle patterns in your trading, consider the current market trend. If the market is in an uptrend, you’re more likely to find an ascending triangle, while a downtrend may reveal a descending triangle. In volatile markets, look for symmetrical triangles.
When it comes to entry and exit points, a strong price movement with considerable volume often indicates a breakout. A “true breakout” is characterized by a thick-bodied candle, as shown in our examples. Additionally, you may notice a temporary decrease in volume before the breakout, as traders prepare for a significant price movement.
Enhancing Triangle Patterns with the MACD Indicator
Although triangle patterns are reliable on their own when drawn correctly, incorporating additional indicators can improve their accuracy and assessment. One such indicator is the Moving Average Convergence/Divergence (MACD).
MACD is designed to estimate changes in momentum, strength, and the duration of a trend. It comprises at least two moving averages, which indicate trend reversals when they intersect. By combining MACD with triangle patterns, traders can confirm whether a breakout is genuine. The MACD indicator also helps determine the right time for a price movement based on the performance of the moving averages.
Putting Your Triangle Pattern Knowledge into Practice
Now that you understand triangle patterns and their technical aspects, it’s time to apply this knowledge to your trading strategies. Remember that practice is essential to success. With an eToro virtual account, you can hone your skills using triangle patterns on actual trades without risking real money. When you’re ready for real-world trading, you can switch to your Real Portfolio.
Mastering triangle patterns can significantly enhance your trading skills on eToro, helping you identify potential breakouts and make better-informed decisions in 2023. So, sign up today and take your trading game to the next level!
eToro Trading Education: β’ Learn more about eToro Tradingπ
Trading Patterns:
Portfolio Management:
Trading Platform and Security:
Fundamental Analysis:
- Fundamental Analysis on eToro
- Mastering Fundamental Analysis in Forex Trading
- What is Fundamental Analysis?
- Top 10 Fundamental Analysis Metrics
- How to Do Fundamental Analysis
- Financial Statements for Fundamental Analysis
- Earnings Per Share (EPS)
- Dividend Yields in Fundamental Analysis
- Calculating Intrinsic Value
- The Role of P/E Ratios
- The Impact of Interest Rates
- Fundamental Analysis to Pick Stocks
- Pros and Cons of Fundamental Analysis
- Fundamental Analysis to Successful Investment