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Technical Analysis

Technical Analysis
Technical Analysis

Technical analysis: A hands-on guide to becoming a Profitable Trader.

First, let us set the foundation of technical analysis.

  1. Using technical analysis evaluates securities by analysing statistics generated by market activity. Technical analysis on price and volume are is the typical use.
  2. Technical analysts try to glean information from charts and identify patterns in price movements. These patterns can be used to identify buy and sell signals, as well as to assess risk and potential reward.

Technical analysis is based on the following:

  1. The market discounts everything: Technical analysts hold the belief that all relevant information that could impact the price of a security is already reflected in the price. This includes news, economic data, and investor sentiment.
  2. Prices move in trends: Technical analysts believe that prices tend to move in trends, which are sustained upward or downward movements. Trends can be short-term, intermediate-term, or long-term.
  3. History repeats itself: Technical analysts believe that price patterns tend to repeat themselves over time. This is because investors are driven by the same basic emotions, such as greed and fear.
  4. Technical analysts use chart tools and indicators to identify patterns and trends. Some of the most used technical indicators include:
  5. Moving averages: Moving averages are a simple way to average out and thus smooth price data. Moving averages are worked out by averaging the closing prices of a security over a period of time.
  6. Support and resistance: Support and resistance are price lines on a chart where the price is likely to bounce or reverse. Technical analysts like to use these support and resistance prices to identify entry and exit points for their trades.
  7. Candlestick patterns: Candlestick patterns are price charts that provide more information than traditional line charts. Candlestick patterns can be used to identify reversals, continuations, and other important trading signals.

Technical analysis can be a useful way to identify trading opportunities. However, it is important to note that technical analysis is not a perfect science. There is no guarantee that any technical indicator will predict future price movements accurately.

Here are a few pointers for using technical analysis effectively:

Use multiple indicators: No single technical indicator is perfect. It is important to use multiple indicators to confirm trading signals.

Consider other factors: Technical analysis should not be used in isolation. You should consider other factors, such as fundamental analysis and market sentiment, when making trading decisions.

Risk management: Risk management is vital for you to understand for successful trading. It is important to use stop-loss orders and to limit your risk on each trade.

Martin Cole - Professional Trader Since 1990s