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1D SMITH WESSON TRENDLINE BREAKOUTTrend Line Trading: The Trend Breaker Strategy
This trendline breakout trading strategy uses three indicators, which are the following:
MACD- The inputs for this indicator are: Fast Length= 12 (represents the previous 12 bars of the faster moving average), Slow Length= 26 (Represents the previous 26 bars of the slower moving average), and Signal Smoothing= 9 ( represents the previous 9 bars of the difference between the two moving averages. This is plotted by vertical lines called a histogram).
Simple Moving Average- The inputs for this indicator are: Length 8, Offset 0. (Red line)
Exponential Moving Average-The inputs for this indicator are: Length 20, Offset 0. (Blue line)
This Trend Breaker strategy also uses three different time frames. They are the 4 hour, the 1 hour, and 15 minute time frames. This top-down approach uses these time frames to identify a trend, find a breakout point, determine an entry point, and execute the trade.
Step One to trend line trading: Identify a trend
The first thing you need to do is identify an upward, downward, or sideways trend by switching to a 4-hour and 1 hour time frames. The reason both are used is that it will give you the best perspective in determining a trend according to this strategy. Draw a trend-line so that 3 points of resistance or support was touched. We created this trendline trading system so that you could easily enter trades without a lot of guesswork on your part. Here You can see a funny video about trading levels.
Since this strategy focuses on trends, a trend line will be drawn on the support or resistance lines of the trend. The criteria for a trend is that there needs to be at least three points of resistance or support.
As you can see on the 4- hour time frame this clearly is a downtrend.
Below is the same chart only this is a 1-hour time frame. This is just to get another perspective of this downtrend. It is good to do this to completely confirm this trend by identifying 3 levels of resistance. Trading with trend lines is not easy, that is why it is important to have a clear system of step by step rules to make it easy for you to follow.
Step Two: Identify a Breakout point Trendline Trading System
In order to find a breakout point of the trend that was identified in step one, the strategy will use a combination of the three indicators (MACD, 15 minute SMA, EMA) to identify a break out on the 15-minute time frame. This time frame is used because a trend was already identified in step one on the 4 hours and 1 hour time frames.
As you can see in the chart above on the 15-minute time frame, the MACD lines were crossed. When the crossover of the fast length and slow length occurs, this will signal a new trend. This gave an indication that a trend was breaking. The moving average and exponential moving average lines also crossed. So when the MACD lines cross and the simple moving average/ exponential lines cross wait until the candlesticks go above/below trend line that was drawn in step one, then identify a point of entry into the trade. One of the reasons we like trend line trading so much is that it is straight forward and simple and we recommend all traders have something simple.
So looking at our example above the criteria was met to go to step three because the SMA and EMA crossed and the MACD lines crossed. Also, the trend went upwards and hit our trend line. This is a signal to go to step three.
If neither of the indicators crosses before the candlesticks close and hit the trend line then do not go any further because the trade does not meet the criteria of the rules. The indicators need to show that the trend broke before it touched the trend line.
Note* When our indicators are crossing, the trend needs to be heading toward the trend line that was drawn in step one. This is because the trend is breaking and a breakout is about to occur. When the breakout happens we will discuss when to make an entry.
Step Three: Trend Line Trading Identify a point of entry
Here is a list of the entry criteria:
These 4 things must happen to enter a trade with this Trend Breaker Strategy.
Simple Moving Average Must Cross below the Exponential moving average.
Macd Must Cross
The price must break below or above the trend line.
After the break of the trendline, you must wait for 3 candles to close on the 15-minute chart before taking your entry.
Now we need to identify a point of entry. To identify a point of entry always use the 15 minute time frame in this strategy.
So in our example below, we see that there is an obvious stand-off between buyers and sellers on the trend line.
Once there are at least three candlesticks above or below the trend line, you execute the trade.
In this example, there are three candlesticks that fell above the trend line after our indicators signaled that the trend was broken. At this point, you want to make an entry. Also, read about Trader's Tech and Installing MT4 EAs with Indicators.
Step four: How to Trade with Trend Lines: Determine where to place a stop loss. 1 Use Pong Position Icon on left side toolbar. Adjust Top Prifit line until center text says 1 to 3 risk reward. This will show you where SL should be placed. OR
Place a stop loss past the last support and resistance levels in the trend itself. Again, use the 15 minute time frame to find this point of resistance/ support level.
In the example shown below, place the stop loss below the last support level. This will ensure that if there was a bearish move, it will hit the last point of support and make a bullish move upwards.
You can clearly see that there are two levels of support in the above example. Use the support levels to determine the stop loss. The rules were to place the stop loss below the last support level which is why you see the stop loss below these levels.
Step five: Trendline Trading System Exit Strategy
The plan clearly identified a trend, a breakout point, point of entry, and determined a stop loss. The final step is to determine the exit point. This Trend Breaker strategy uses 1 risk to 3 reward ratio.
What that means is you have the potential to make 3 times more than you are risking.
Use the Long Position Icon on the left side toolbar. Adjust top profit level until the center text says 1 to 3 risk reward.
Conclusion
This Trend Breaker Strategy is simple and yet effective. There is no need to stress and worry that you made the wrong trade. You follow the rules and do not let anything else make you back out of a trade. If it follows the rules, execute the trade with confidence.
Always remember to only be risking no more than 2% of your account!
This will help you identify daily trends and points where they break. There is no need to force yourself into a trade. If it does not follow your rules and guidelines then search for another pair to trade. Feel free to check out one of our other trading strategies.
GBPJPY 4H 15M RABBIT TRAIL CHANNEL TRADING STRATEGY LONG TRADERule #1: Draw a channel on a 1 or 4 hour chart.
Rule #2 Identify If there is a Breakout on 1 hour or 4 hour chart.
Rule #3 Wait for a Pull Back on a 15 minute Chart.
Rule #4 After Pull Back on 15m, Make Entry.
Rule #5 Find a Stop Loss Placement.
Rule #6 Ride The Rabbit Trail to 50 pips with a TP Order!
Rule #1: Draw a channel on a 1 hour or 4 hour chart.
The first thing you need to do to get this strategy started off is you need to find a channel on a
four hour or one hour chart. Remember there must be two resistance and support points to
validate a channel.
This strategy can use many currency pairs. Make sure you search through all of them. Many say
that they “only trade EURUSD.” There is no reason for that..
Get in the charts and see for yourself! There are channels everywhere. This strategy will work
with any currency pair. The opportunities are endless..
Not too bad. So basically all you are doing here is drawing parallel lines on the tops and
bottoms of the price movement. This example hit a quite a few resistance and support levels
which means that when it breaks this channel it has the potential to make a huge move!
Rule #2 Identify If there is a Breakout on a 1 hour
chart.
The way you find the trade is to find a breakout of the channel that you drew on your chart..
In a perfect world the support and resistance levels will hold on forever..
But the world isn’t perfect..
So that’s why we have what is called a breakout.
This breakout happened on the top of the channel. So that means you will BUY.
If the breakout happens on the bottom of the channel then you will SELL.
Great! We have breakout candle let’s get in the trade and follow the rabbit trail to pip glory!
Rule #3 Wait for a Pull Back on a 15 minute Chart.
Why wait? Because the market is money grabbing machine, and they want your hard earned
cash!
You wait because sometimes the market does a “head fake” and turns against you.
So if you would have got in this trade right when it broke out of the channel you would soon
have got stopped out.
That is why it is so important to Wait for it to pull back.
This is where many people struggle. They see that it broke out so they want to click BUY or
SELL right now!!!
Think about the sayings you have heard since you were a child, “Patience is a Virtue,” Or “Good
things in life take Time”
Just be patient and wait…
This trade would not have burned you, but countless other trades would have!
Think about the pull back as the candle that closes towards the channel. So if the pull back is
above the channel you are looking for a bearish (red) candle. If the pull back is below the
channel you are looking for a bullish (green) candle.
*We only need one of these pull back candles on a 15 minute chart. Once this happens
move on to the next step.
Rule #4 After Pull Back, Make Entry.
We are getting so close to getting on our rabbit trail to make some serious pips!
Our lines are drawn, we identified the breakout, and waited for the pull back. It is now time to
make our trade.
The criteria to make an entry after a pull back on a 15 minute chart to enter a trade is that there
must be two 15-minute candles that support our trade.
If it is a BUY trade we want to see TWO bullish (up) candles after the pull back.
If it is a SELL trade we want to see TWO bearish (down) candles after the pull back.
Enter after the two bullish 15 minute candlesticks close.
So again, we WAIT for a pull back candle to close and then we need two BULLISH (green)
candles to close to many an entry.
Rule #5 Stop Loss Placement
This is probably one of the most important rules of the strategy.
You always need to place a stop loss somewhere for a reason. If you are throwing in stop
losses 5 to 10 pips from your entry order just because someone you read that somewhere, then
you are without a doubt treading some dangerous waters.
In a Buy The stop loss will be placed in the channel below the last support point.
In a SELL The stop loss will be placed in the channel above the last resistance point.
That way if it does come back in the Channel it will hit the support level and end up going back
up in a bullish movement.
Rule #6 Ride The Rabbit Trail to 50 pips!
The last thing you need to do is know when to exit the trade.
This strategy goes for a 50 pip target.
So when you make your entry, you calculate 50 pips take profit mark and place it.
The rabbit trail may be 2 hours, or could take as long as two days. You have your target so
really you have nothing else to do but sit back and watch your trade make you some money!
Stay in the trade and remember your rules. You are going for a 50 pip breakout trade!
EURUSD 1H VOLUME TRADING STRATEGY LONG TRADEVolume Trading Strategy
This volume trading strategy uses two very powerful techniques that you won’t see written anywhere else. These are trade secrets that we’ve only been taught to professional traders.
The Chaikin indicator will dramatically improve your timing and teach you how to trade defensively. Having a good defense when trading is absolutely critical to keep the profits that you’ve earned.
In this article, we’re going to look at the buy side.
The Importance of Buying Volume and Selling Volume
Volume trading requires you to pay careful attention to the forces of supply in demand.
Volume traders will look for instances of increased buying or selling orders. They also pay attention to current price trends and potential price movements.
Generally, increased trading volume will lean heavily towards buy orders. These positive volume trends will prompt traders to open a new position.
On the other hand, if the cash flow and trading volumes decrease– we see a “bearish divergence”, meaning that it will likely be an appropriate time to sell.
You also need to pay attention to the relative volume—regardless of the raw number of transactions occurring in a trading period. Ask yourself how is the prospective asset performing relative to what was expected?
By learning how to use the Chaikin money flow and other relevant indicators, you will easily be able to identify whether the buyer or the seller is currently “in control.”
With practice, volume trading strategies can yield wins for your portfolio 77% of the time!
Step #1: Chaikin Volume Indicator must shoot up in a straight line from below zero (minimum -0.15) to above the zero line (minimum +0.15).
When the Volume goes from negative to positive in a strong fashion way it has the potential to signal strong institutional buying power. That’s our base heavy lifting signal!
Basically, we let the market to reveal its intentions.
When big money steps into the market, they leave a mark as their orders are so big that it’s impossible to hide. When the volume indicator Forex goes straight from below zero to above the zero line and beyond, it shows accumulation by smart money.
We’re a firm believer that you get the maximum bang for your buck when you trade side by side with smart money. Chances are that institutions have more money and more resources at their disposal. Odds can be stacked against you, so if you want to change that, just follow the smart money.
There is one more condition that needs to be satisfied to confirm a trade entry.
Step #2: Wait for the Volume Indicator Forex to slowly pullback below the zero line. The price needs to remain above the previous swing low.
Once we spotted the elephant in the room, aka the institutional players, we start to look for the first sign of market weakness. Here is how to identify the right swing to boost your profit.
We’re going to let the Chaikin Money Flow indicator slowly drop below the zero line. The keyword here is “slowly”. We don’t want to see the volume dropping fast because this will invalidate the accumulation noted previously.
Second, as the volume decreases and drops below the zero, we want to make sure the price remains above the previous swing glow. This will confirm the smart money accumulation.
The Volume strategy satisfies all the required trading conditions, which means that we can move forward and outline what is the trigger condition for our entry strategy.
Step #3: Buy once the Chaikin Forex indicator breaks back above the zero line. Wait for the candle to close before pulling the trigger.
Now that we have observed real institutional money coming into the market, we wait for them to step back in and drive the market back up.
When the Chaikin indicator breaks back above zero, it signals an imminent rally as the smart money is trying to markup the price again.
We would need to wait for the candle close to confirm the Chaikin break above the zero line. Once everything aligns, we’re free to open our long position.
*Note: The trigger candle needs to have the closing price in the upper 25%.
This brings us to the next important step. We need to establish the Chaikin trading strategy which is finding where to place our protective stop loss.
Step #4: Hide your protective Stop Loss under the previous pullback’s low
Using a stop loss is crucial if you want to have an idea of how much you’re about to lose on your trade. Never underestimate the power of placing a stop loss as it can be lifesaving.
Simply hide your protective stop loss under the previous pullback’s low. Never use a mental stop loss, and always commit an SL right at the moment you open your trades.
Trading with a tight stop loss can give you the opportunity to not just have a better risk to reward ratio, but also to trade a bigger lot size.
Step #5: Take profit when the Chaikin Volume drops below -0.15
Once the Chaikin volume drops back below -0.15, it indicates that the sellers are stepping in and we want to take profits. We don’t want to risk giving back some of the profits gained so we liquidate our position at the first sign of the smart money stepping in on the other side of the market.
We always can get back into the market later if the smart money buyers show up again.
**Note: The above was an example of a BUY trade using the best volume indicator. Use the same rules for a SELL trade – but in reverse.
Conclusion – Best Volume Indicator
The Volume Trading Strategy will continue to work in the future because it’s based on how the markets move up and down. Any market moves from an accumulation (distribution) or base to a breakout and so forth. This is how the markets have been moving for over 100 years.
Smart money always seeks to mask their trading activities, but their footprints are still visible. We can read those marks by using the proper tools.
Make sure you follow this step-by-step guide to properly read the Forex volume. The Chaikin indicator will add additional value to your trading because you now have a window into the volume activity the same way you have when you trade stocks.
Volume Indicator Forex
In the Forex market, we don’t have a centralized exchange of total volume because we’re trading over the counter. If we look at any trading platform like TradingView, they have a volume attached to their chart. But, since we don’t have a centralized exchange that volume is coming from the feed that TradingView uses. Each retail Forex broker will have their own aggregate trading volume.
We can see that the volume in the Forex market is segmented, which is the reason why we need to use our best volume indicator.
The Volume indicator Forex used to read a volume in the Forex market is the Chaikin Money Flow indicator (CMF).
The Chaikin Money Flow indicator was developed by trading guru Marc Chaikin, who was coached by the most successful institutional investors in the world.
The reason Chaikin Money Flow is the best volume and classical volume indicator is that it measures institutional accumulation-distribution.
Typically on a rally, the Chaikin volume indicator should be above the zero line. Conversely, on sell-offs, the Chaikin volume indicator should be below the zero line.
EURUSD 1H RENKO CHART STRATEGY #2The second simple Renko Trading Strategy system is an indicator based strategy that uses price-momentum divergence to identify trend reversals.
Renko Trading Strategy #2
For this Renko trading strategy, we only need to use the RSI indicator. We can use a 14- period or a 20-period RSI indicator. So, use the same period as the ATR 14 or 20 Renko brick size.
After we spot the momentum divergence an entry signal is triggered once we get a reversal. On the Renko chart, a trend reversal is set in motion once the brick changes color. In this case, when we spot a bearish divergence, enter a short position after the brick turns red.
For bullish divergence, wait for the brick to turn green.
We exit our profitable trade once another reversal pattern is formed in the opposite direction of our trade. As a method to protect our account balance and not lose too much, you can place your SL above and below the swing point developed after your entry.
A lot of the noise inherent in regular time-based charts are eradicated. So, if you trade with Renko charts, spotting divergence and trend reversals are a lot easier. The RSI is the best indicator to use with Renko.
Read the previous Renko Chart post to learn about Renko chart system.
EURUSD 1H RENKO CHARTRenko Trading Strategy #1
This profitable Renko strategy you can use is to focus only on the bricks.
No additional technical tool is required for this system.
We’re going to explore a very simple and yet very powerful Renko chart pattern that incorporates the wicks. This Renko price pattern looks for two consecutive bricks of the same color and both bricks have wicks.
The location of this Renko pattern doesn’t really matter. It can be at the end or middle of a trend. This pattern has a very high rate of success if traded in the right context. You have to look around these two brick patterns and make sure the blocks are not moving back and forth within a trading range.
If that’s not the case, then you have a green light to take the signal generated by this trade setup.
The entry is on the third brick after the two bricks that have wicks. The stop loss can be placed above the wicks and exit once a reversal pattern is produced.
Conclusion – Renko Trading Strategy
Renko bars ensure that you have a cleaner and neater representation of price action. If you’re having a hard time reading the price on a candlestick chart, maybe it’s time to look in another direction. Trading with our profitable Renko strategy can be the perfect fit for you.
We truly believe that Forex Renko charts are more suitable for traders who still struggle to analyze a candlestick chart. The Renko trading strategies presented through this trading guide are just an introduction into the world of Renko bricks. We hope you now have a clear idea of what the possibilities are by using this new charting technique.
When you’re actively trading the markets (scalping, day trading) it’s important to have a methodology to clear out the market noise. The Renko trading strategy is time-independent and gives you an eccentric way to view price action.
Even though the free Renko charts can be used across different asset classes, including cryptocurrencies our simple Renko system is designed, but not limited, to be used in the Forex market.
What are Renko Charts?
A Renko chart is a technical tool or a type of chart that is built by only using price data. Unlike the Japanese candlestick charts, which are built using price, time and volume, the Renko chart only measures price movement.
Renko has no time dimension.
Renko charts are not some long-hidden secrets dating back to feudal Japan times as some trading gurus would like you to believe. Renko bars were actually developed several decades ago.
The name Renko means brick in Japanese and comes from the word “renga.” These charts are sometimes referred to as brick charts by traders.
Steve Nison who is the father of modern candlestick charting is the man who actually made Renko charts forex known to the general public. These charts are often compared to traditional candlesticks but have some key differences. While candlestick charts have varying lengths of “wicks” throughout, Renko bricks are all the same size.
The simplified bricks found in Renko charts make it easier to read the market and make quick decisions. These charts are ideal for day traders, though they can be used by traders using any timeframe. By removing the noisier parts of the candlestick chart that apply to longer-term trading strategies, Renko charts make it possible to determine where the market is actually moving.
Every candlestick on the Renko chart is called a brick because it has the shape of a building brick. The rectangular bricks used for building walls are about the same size. The same goes with Renko charts; every brick is the same size. The size of a Renko brick is pre-determined by the user.
How to Read and Build a Renko Trading Chart
Reading a Renko chart is simple. Because the bricks have a fixed size, they can all easily be compared to one another. The color (and direction) of the Renko brick will change once the value of the previous brick has been exceeded. This indicates to traders that trends are changing and that the price is likely to swing in the opposite direction.
Each brick represents a price range (example – $0.25). However, while the bricks are evenly sized within the same graph, they can be adjusted to your trading objectives. Individuals opening and holding longer, high-cap positions will use different brick sizes than penny stock day traders.
We recommend using the average true range—or, ATR for short—in order to construct each brick. The ATR is derived from the closing price of the stock. This means that a Renko chart is a lagging indicator. In the next step, we will show you how to read Renko bars.
Note #1: if you use Renko bars with wicks or tails, then some bricks may display additional wicks either at the top or the bottom of a brick. But the brick size remains the same.
On the Tradingview charting platform you can go to Chart Settings – Style – Wick, and select which way you want the bricks to be displayed, with or without wicks.
Before returning to the Renko bricks with wicks, let’s give you the basics or the foundation of a Renko brick.
We already established that the brick size is pre-determined by the user. If you’re trading with Renko charts, and your preferred brick size is 20 pips, then bricks only form when price moved either up or down by 20 pips.
The best way to illustrate this concept is to look at Renko blocks through the eyes of the candlestick charts. In the EUR/USD 5-minute candlestick chart below, we highlighted areas of 20 pips worth of price movement.
A green Renko brick would form only after the price will advance 20 pips. Conversely, a red Renko brick would form only after the price declines 20 pips.
As you can tell, the time intervals between each brick are inconsistent.
It’s clear that Renko is less noisy and cuts through a lot of the noise between the swing low and swing highs.
Important note: When you trade with Renko charts, the price needs to travel double the price distance of your brick size in order for the Renko brick to change color.
For example, if the brick size remains 20, it means that we need to actually move 40 pips for a red brick to be printed after we had a green brick.
Let’s return for a second to why some blocks have wicks?
Trading Renko charts with wicks can be a very powerful tool in your trading arsenal. Bricks with wicks give us further clues on the battle between the bulls and the bears.
A wick is printed on a Renko brick only when there is a strong attempt to produce a reversal (a change of brick’s color from green to red and vice versa), but it fails. The wick will simply show you how many pips it went in the opposite direction.
Note #3: a wick is printed on a brick only when the price moves in the opposite direction of the previous candle by at least the length of the brick size +1.
Let’s see how you can optimize the Renko block, and how to choose the right Renko brick size.
How to choose the right Renko Brick Size?
If you don’t know what the right size for Renko charts is then, we have a solution.
If we want a dynamic reading of the price through the Renko blocks, we can use a brick size that is determined by the ATR (Average True Range). Instead of picking a random brick size, this will give you dynamic support and resistance levels that are more accurate.
The ATR will automatically detect the right brick size that is more in tune with the price action.
Note #4: The disadvantage of using an ATR based Renko chart size is that when the ATR value changes, your Renko bricks are redrawn again to reflect the new changes.
When selecting your Renko brick size, ask yourself the following questions:
What are my objectives as a trader?
What are my time constraints? What is the cost of trading?
Am I opening small positions or larger positions?
Do I consider myself risk-tolerant or risk-averse?
If you are pursuing large, lower-risk positions over longer periods of time, then it will make sense to use a larger Renko brick size. On the other hand, if you are pursuing high-risk positions that require paying close attention to volatility, then smaller bricks will be better.
1ST - MACD TREND FOLLOWING STRATEGYQUESTION - WHAT ARE THE BEST FOREX TRADING STRATEGIES?
1ST - MACD TREND FOLLOWING STRATEGY
Step #1: Wait for the MACD lines to develop a higher high followed by a lower high swing point.
This is an unorthodox approach to technical analysis. But, we at Trading Strategy Guides.com are different. We don’t mind doing uncomfortable things if that’s what it takes to succeed in this business.
First, let’s visualize how an authentic swing point really looks on the MACD indicator:
The first rule of thumb to recognize a swing high on the MACD indicator is to look at the price chart if the respective currency pair is doing a swing high the same as the MACD indicator does. A higher high is the highest swing price point on a chart and must be higher than all previous swing high points. While a lower high happens when the swing point is lower than the previous swing high point.
Step #2: Connect the MACD line swing points that you have identified in Step #1 with a trendline.
At this point, we really ignored the MACD histogram because much of the information contained by the histogram is already showing up by the moving averages. Look at the price action now and compare it to our MACD trendline we drew early. We can clearly notice that the MACD contains the price action much better and reflects the trend much clear.
But, at this point, we’re still not done with the MACD indicator, which brings us to the critical part of our MACD Trend Following Strategy.
Step #3: Wait for the MACD line to break above the trendline. (Entry at the market price as soon as the MACD line breaks above).
When the MACD line (the blue line) crosses the signal line (the orange line) it’s an early signal that a bullish trend might start. However, if trading would be that easy we would all be millionaires, right? And that’s the reason why our MACD Trend Following Strategy is so unique. We’re not only waiting for the MACD moving averages to cross over but we also have our other criteria for the price action to break aka the trend line we drew early.
This is a clever way to filter out the false MACD signals, but you have to be equipped with the right mindset and have patience until all the piece of the puzzle come together. If you were to trade just based on the MACD crossover over time you’ll lose money because that’s not a reliable strategy. But if you use the MACD indicator along with other criteria such what this strategy tells you to do, you will find great trade entries on a consistent basis.
Step #4: Use Protective Stop Loss Order. (Place the SL below the most recent swing low).
Now, that you already know how to enter a trade at this point you have to learn how to manage risk and where to place the SL. After all, a trader is basically a risk manager.
You want to place your stop loss below the most recent low, like in the figure below. But make sure you add a buffer of 5-10 pips away from the low, to protect yourself from possible false breakouts.
Did you notice?
The MACD Trend Following Strategy triggered the buy signal right at the start of a new trend and what is most important the timing is more than perfection. We bought EUR/USD the same day the bullish divergence trend started.
Now, what this has to do with the SL?
Basically, a good entry price means a smaller stop loss and ultimately it means you’ll lose a lot less comparing it with the profit potential, so a positive risk to reward ratio.
Step #5: Take Profit when the MACD crossover happens in the opposite direction of our entry.
Knowing when to take profit is as important as knowing when to enter a trade. However, we want to make sure we don’t use the same trading technique as for our entry order. When the MACD line (the blue line) produces signal line crossovers (the orange line) we want to close the position and take full profits.
Before taking profits, it’s important to wait for the candle close – either the 4h or the daily candle – depending on the time frame you trade so you make sure the MACD crossover actually happens.
Note** The above was an example of a buy trade using the MACD Trend Following Strategy. Use the exact same rules – but in reverse – for a sell trade.
Conclusion:
The MACD Trend Following Strategy is a very simple trend following strategy and yet a very profitable strategy at the same time. As the saying goes, “The trend is your friend” and no matter if you’re just starting as a Forex trader or you’re already an established trader life is much easier when trading in the direction of the line of least resistance rather than fighting the trend which is a loser’s game.
The success behind the MACD Trend Following Strategy is derived from one simple principle: momentum precedes price.
EURJPY 1H SCHIFF PITCHFORK LONG TRADING STRATEGYThe Andrews Pitchfork Trading Strategy
Our team at Trading Strategy Guides likes to use the Pitchfork trading system to identify a change in market behavior and make a profit from it. It’s important to understand what Andrews Pitchfork is and what pivots to use. This will give us more confidence later when taking the trades based on the Pitchfork trading system.
Moving forward, we present the buy-side rules of the Andrews Pitchfork trading Indicator.
Step #1: Identify the Three Pivot Points necessary to Draw the Pitchfork lines.
The first thing you need to establish for the Pitchfork trading system is to identify three pivot points necessary to draw the Pitchfork lines. For more insights into this topic, check out the what is Andrews Pitchfork section.
Since we’re looking for buying opportunities, we need to identify a series of rising pivot points.
Step #2: Apply the Pitchfork indicator starting from Pivot 1 and move through Pivot 2 and Pivot 3.
Now, use the three pivots identified and draw the Pitchfork trading system lines by connecting the pivots together. Start from Pivot 1 and move forward through Pivot 2 and Pivot 3.
During this stage, you’ll be plotting the Pitchfork trading system lines. This will map the most important dynamic support and resistance levels. Once you’ve done this correctly you will see a rectangle or pitchfork formed.
Step #3: Buy at the market at the first retest of the lower Pitchfork support trendline.
With the Andrews Pitchfork trading strategy, the price should be contained inside the Pitchfork parallel channel. In this regard, if we’re looking for buying opportunities, assume the lower Pitchfork support trendline to hold the price for a bounce.
We recommend buying when the lower Pitchfork support trendline is tested.
The next logical thing we need to establish for the Andrews Pitchfork trading strategy is where to take profits.
Step #4: Take Partial Profit at the Median Line, and Take Profit 2 at the upper Pitchfork Resistance trendline.
The Pitchfork trading system gives you the flexibility to manage your trades in many different ways.
Our mantra is, “Keep it Simple, Stupid.” In this regard, since the core principle of the Andrews Pitchfork trendline is that price tends to gravitate towards the median line, it’s the logical place to take some profits off the table.
We only take partial profits on the median line because we also want to maximize our profits. This will give the market a chance to retest the upper Pitchfork resistance trendline.
With the Andrews Pitchfork trading system, we’re trading in the direction of the trend. So, the expectation is to see the price moving higher and eventually retest the upper Pitchfork limits.
Note: After TP1 was reached, move your SL at BE. We accomplish two things by doing this. First, we make sure that we accumulate profits. And secondly, if the markets reverse, make sure you stopped at BE and don’t lose any money.
The next important thing we need to establish is where to place your protective stop loss.
Step #5: Place the Stop Loss below the lower Pitchfork trendline and add a buffer of 20-30 pips.
The recommended place to hide our protective stop loss is by adding a buffer of 20 – 30 pips below the lower Pitchfork trendline.
Normally, in an uptrend, the support Pitchfork trendline should hold the price above. However, in order to protect ourselves from possible false breakouts, we’ve added a buffer of around 20-30 pips to our protective stop loss.
Note* In a strong uptrend, it’s quite normal for the price to break and trade above the resistance Pitchfork trendline. Inversely, in a strong downtrend, it’s quite normal for the price to break and trade below the support Pitchfork trendline.
Andrews Pitchfork Trading Strategy Conclusion
There are many Andrews Pitchfork trading strategies that can be built around the Pitchfork trading system lines. They can all be simply derived from the Pitchfork’s trading rules. In order to use this system, you need to understand what Andrews Pitchfork is. You can also read our best short-term trading strategy.
Andrews Pitchfork is simple to understand because, according to the Pitchfork trading system principles, you only need to know these three rules:
Price tends to gravitate towards the median line.
When price breaks the median line there is a high chance it will pull back to retest again the median line.
When price breaks the Pitchfork channel on the opposite side of the channel direction, there is a shift in market sentiment and the trend can reverse.
USDJPY 1D/1H - HOW TO PROFIT FROM TRADING PULLBACKSTRADING PULLBACK RULES
1 - Find Daily uptrend with HH's & HL's.
2 - Switch to the 1h Time Frame
and Wait for a Pullback
against the Uptrend.
3 - Place Fib between last swing
high and low levels,
prior to the pullback.
4 - Buy Anywhere Between 50% and 61.8% Fib.
5 - Place Stop Loss below Swing Low.
6- Take Profit at break above the
previous Swing High.
The BEST Timeframe to Trade ForexYou got into trading for one reason and one reason only. To change your life. For freedom, for freedom to do the things you want to do. To spend time doing what you want to do when you want to do it.
NOT to be a slave to the screen. Not to stare at the charts all day.
And here is the thing. If that is what was required, to stare at the charts for hours at a time watching each tick, then you would do it. You would do whatever it takes to succeed.
The thing is and I want you to pay attention to what I am going to say right now because it is very important, the very thing you are doing is actually the thing preventing you from success. You are spending too much time watching the markets and taking way too many trades.
Trade less. Avoid the noise. Take strong signals with a different mindset and increase your win ratio and profitability.
BTCUSD 1H WILLIAMS %R MOMENTUM STRATEGYStep #1: Wait for the best Forex Momentum Indicator to get oversold (below -80). Then rallies above the -50 level before Buying .
Step #2: We’re going to use Williams %R, the best forex momentum indicator in a smart way. In an uptrend, we buy after the best forex momentum indicator has reached oversold conditions (below -80). And then rallied back above the -50 level.
Note* If the %R momentum indicator continually stays in oversold territory (below -80 level), it signals a strong momentum and conversely a strong trend. Inversely the same is true in a uptrend.
Step #3: Place Your Protective Stop Loss below the Recent Higher Low.
We want to hide our protective stop loss. It is below the most recent higher low level that formed right before the best momentum trading strategy issue the buy signal.
Alternatively, you can also trail your stop loss below each most recent higher low. This strategy will allow you to lock-in the potential profits in case of a sudden market reversal.
Step #4: Take Profit once we break below the Previous Higher Low
A trend in motion can stay in that state longer than anyone can anticipate. And since we want to maximize our potential profits we let the market tips it hands before liquidating our trades. In this regard, we look for a break in the trend structure. Respectively a break below the most recent higher low.
Alternatively, you can take profit once the best forex momentum indicator breaks below the -50 level.
Note** The above was an example of a BUY trade using the Best Momentum Trading Strategy. Use the same rules for a SELL trade.
Summary
The best momentum trading strategy (%R) leverages the tendency of a market’s price to continue moving in a single direction. This is where the momentum might be upwards or downwards. In essence, market timing is crucial for a momentum indicator strategy. And in this regard, we incorporated the best Forex momentum indicator (Williams %R) in our momentum strategy. Here are some of the trading conditions you want to avoid in the forex market.
Timing the market can be a daunting task. But our team at Trading Strategy Guides believes that using a pure price action can get you a long way. Check out our Price Action Pin Bar Trading Strategy.
XRPUSD 1H BEST %R MOMENTUM STRATEGYStep #1: Define the Trend. An Downtrend is defined by a Series of LH Followed by a Series of LL.
The definition of an downtrend is pretty much standard. In an downtrend, we look for a series of lower highs followed by a series of lower lows. Two LH followed by at least another two LL is enough to define an downtrend.
A lower high is simply a swing low point that is lower than the previous swing high. While a lower low is simply a swing low that is lower than the previous swing low.
All momentum traders know that the trend is our friend. But without momentum behind the trend, we might actually not have any trend.
For active traders, we also look at the actual price action in order to gauge momentum. Besides reading the best momentum indicator.
Step #2: In an Downtrend Look for Bold Candlesticks that Close Near the Lower End of the Candlestick .
A technical analysis concept is that you want to use multiple confirmation signs when buying and selling. This will increase the likelihood that’s a high probability trading setup.
In this regard, the momentum trading strategy besides using the best momentum indicator, also incorporates the price action.
A practical way to read momentum from a price chart is to simply look at the candlestick length. What we want to see in an downtrend is big, bold bearish candlesticks that close near the lower end of the candlestick.
Now, it’s time to focus on the Williams %R. This is the best momentum indicator. Which brings us to the next step of our momentum indicator strategy.
Step #3: Wait for the best Momentum Indicator to get overbought (above -20). Then rallies below the -50 level before Selling .
We’re going to use Williams %R, the best momentum indicator in a smart way. In an downtrend, we sell after the best momentum indicator has reached overbought conditions (above -20). And then rallied back below the -50 level.
Now, we have confirmation from both the price and the best momentum indicator. The real momentum is behind this trend and the probabilities are in favor of more downside prices from here on.
Note* If the best momentum indicator continually stays in oversold territory (below -80 level), it signals a strong momentum and conversely a strong trend. Inversely the same is true in a uptrend.
The next important thing we need to establish is where to place our protective stop loss.
Step #4: Place Your Protective Stop Loss above the Recent Lower Low.
We want to hide our protective stop loss. It is above the most recent lower low level that formed right before the best momentum trading strategy issue the sell signal.
Alternatively, you can also trail your stop loss above each most recent lower low. This strategy will allow you to lock-in the potential profits in case of a sudden market reversal.
Last but not least the momentum indicator strategy also needs a place where we need to take profits, which brings us to the last step of the best momentum trading strategy.
Step #5: You pick your own TP strategy or
Take Profit once we break above the Previous Lower Low
A trend in motion can stay in that state longer than anyone can anticipate. And since we want to maximize our potential profits we let the market tips it hands before liquidating our trades. In this regard, we look for a break in the trend structure. Respectively a break above the most recent lower low.
Alternatively, you can take profit once the best momentum indicator breaks above the -50 level.
Note** The above was an example of a SELL trade using the Best Momentum Trading Strategy. Use the same rules for a BUY trade.
ETHUSD PRICE ACTION PIN BAR TRADING STRATEGYPin Bars
This price action strategy will focus entirely on a price pattern called pin bars. This candle is simply the price hitting a certain level and being “rejected” from it. This bar has a long tail on it with a small body.
There are different types of characteristics for a particular pin bar. For instance, the long end of the candle is the wick, while the small end (the opposite side of the body) is called the nose. Most agree the long tail, or “wick,” will be at least two-thirds the total length of the pin bar itself. The other part of the pin bar will naturally be, at the most, one-third of the candle. The open price of the candle and the close should be relatively the same price. This forms the ‘Body.’
To confirm a pin bar, you must wait for the candle to close. Just because the current candle “looks” like a pin bar, does not necessarily mean it is. in the example above, the price movement could have continued upward and closed at the top of the candle. In turn, it would not be considered a pin bar.
Basic Guidelines:
Timeframe - ANY
Market - ANY
Indicators - NONE
OTHER - Trend lines, horizontal lines, support resistance lines (anything to help you find these areas).
Step 1: Find a Pin Bar On Your Chart.
*Note This is a stock price action strategy, and a forex price action strategy. I will use a currency pair as an example. Price action charts are with any market and timeframe.
First, identify a pin bar that has formed.
Step 2: Look for Past Price Action to Determine Why The Pin Bar Formed.
Why did the reversal suddenly hit a price, and then continue back to the upside?
Let’s zoom out a bit on a daily chart. We'll figure out if we can see anything that explains what happened.
Note** you can either look at the current time frame you are on, in this case, a 1-hour time period. Or you can bump up one or two periods to gather information.
Resistance in the past can mean support in the future. What happened is the price hit this level but failed to break through it.
Since the long bullish wick formed, we decide it is time to enter this trade based on what we learned from the prior days.
This is what Price Action is all about. No two trades are the same. However, we can take what we've learned from the past. Then make the best judgment as to where the price is going in the future.
You are essentially like a detective when you trade price action. The point is to gather many pieces of evidence to back up your conclusion. You are trading with confluence. Sometimes simple is best. Study the charts and form an educated conclusion as to where the price will go.
Step 3: Trade entry
You just enter the trade 2-3 pips from the break of the nose of the pin bar.
Step 4: Stop loss
Place the stop loss 3-5 pips away from the wick. The end of the wick will be a support area. So if this is broken the trend may continue downward. Which is why you place your stop 3-5 pips away from this.
Step 5: Exit Strategy
Your exit strategy is when you hit the first level of support or resistance on your chart. As you can see, the price hit a point then stalled out. Once we see the price action stalling out, we exit the trade immediately.
Conclusion - Price Action Pin Bar Strategy
Price action is another fundamental element to learn when trading the market. There are thousands of strategies you can use with price action. It is important to find something that works for you.
These pin bars are hard to miss. They are relatively accurate when you learn why a pin bar formed. Pin bar candles are shown in any time frame. The rule of thumb is, the higher the time frame, the stronger the signals. But that does not mean that this will not work on a five-minute time frame.
Do not trade every pin bar you see that forms. Gather up key information from the charts. Then form the best conclusion to determine if you should enter the trade based on the rules.
EURUSD 1H INSIDE CANDLE METHOD BREAKOUTINSIDE CANDLE STRATEGY
What is an Inside Candle
1. Previous candle engulfs next candle.
2. 2nd candle high is lower that 1st candle.
3. 2nd candle low is higher than 1st candle.
INSIDE CANDLE METHOD
1. Incoming Trend
2. Inside Candle – Opposite Color
3. Enter Break of Engulfing Larger Candle
Inside Candle method is a great short term consolidation indicator.
If your trade plan contains breakouts and consolidation then this method is for you.
This is a great way to find smaller consolidations quicker which will give you more trades on whatever time frame you want to look.
On a daily chart it may take weeks for a consolidation pattern to form.
Inside candle represents a pause, consolidation or compression in the market after a big move.
Often you will also see reduced volume on the inside candle.
Inside Candle method is a pause or a reversal of the trend . So it is more effective if there is an incoming trend.
Enter a break of the larger engulfing candle in the direction of the break.
Enter with a Stop Order a few pips above or below breakout level.
Which trades you take is a matter of preference.
Some like reversal trades or trend following trades.
Scalping in doesn't matter what direction you may go.
Trend following you will want to see this in context of a larger trend.
Take all the trade setups and just shut down the ones that don't preform.
Trade Management: Enter 2 trades
Stop Loss is 1.5 x ATR for both trades
First Take Profit is 1 x ATR for 1st trade
2nd trade there is no take profit.
When 1st TP is hit move 2nd trades SL to breakeven.
Let profit run on 2nd trade by following/trailing SL.
If a candle closes back inside the larger engulfing candle close down trade.
Watch for a setup for the next breakout.
CAN A MA HELP YOU TO DETERMINE IF PRICE CONTINUES OR REVERSESWill Price Continue or Reverse
Possible Expectation of Price and a Moving Average
If less than 30 bars since price has been on the opposite
side of MA - expect range behavior not continuation
If more than 30 bars expect price to continue in 1 direction
TRADING PULLBACKS WITH KELTNER CHANNELTrading Pullbacks with Keltner Channel
Trading pullbacks successfully can only be done in the presence of a strong trend. Using the Keltner channel indicator we can study how the price behaves around the upper and lower envelopes to gauge the strength of the trend.
As you already learned when the price hugs one of the two bands and crawls along the band, we have a case for a strong trending market.
In the chart below we’ve highlighted small retracements while the price hugs the upper Keltner band. Notice that the price retrace to the area around the 20-EMA. It won’t give you an exact price, but a price zone from where the price can potentially bounce and the bullish trend can resume.
This remains a good way to measure pullbacks in price. Successful trading doesn’t require catching the exact turning point.
For a better timing of our trades we can use the Stochastic RSI indicator in combination with the Keltner indicator for more confluence.
The trade trigger is simply to follow with this Keltner Channel pullback strategy. Pull the trigger when the price retraces to the middle band and the stochastic indicator develops a crossover from an oversold territory.
KNOW WHAT TO LOOK FOR IN A RANGE PATTERNThe market is working a range pattern the majority
of the time which is good news if you know what to look for.
Range patterns are full of information that will help you anticipate what comes next, so you can trade. Here are 3 examples that will make you chart smarter!
The first chart is my personal favorite range pattern. When you see a well established range, watch for price to "overshoot" your expected high or low. When that happens, get ready! As soon as it goes past the expected high or low, place pending orders to sell from the top or buy from the bottom. If price comes back to the range, it will come back fast!
The 2nd chart is an example of past performance predicting future price movement. During a range pattern, look back 15 bars from the middle of the range, and anticipate the market moving that far in the opposite direction. In this example, the solid arrow is predictive of the dashed arrow.
The last chart is an example of how the typical slow or no momentum you would expect is happening in the middle third, shaded in orange. To and from the outer edges of the range, momentum shows up.
TIPS FOR RANGE TRADINGRanges contain elements of certainty which are rare in a speculative industry.
With previously established highs and lows, you can anticipate where the market is likely to hold, change direction or stop all together.
5 interesting facts about range patterns when charting price action.
1 - The range pattern is good for traders who are terrible at cutting their losses. The nature of a range is to not make progress in one direction, so this is the best pattern to trade if you don’t like taking your stops. If the market moves against your open trade during a range, your patience may be rewarded, because chances are price will swing back in your direction.
2 - Ranges contain areas where you can expect momentum. That sounds like a contradiction, right? It's not. You can expect the typical slow market condition in a range, but only in the middle third of the range space. Count on momentum showing up when it runs to and from the outer edges of the range.
3 - Past performance predicts future movement. You’ve heard it - you’ve probably even said it - “Past performance is no guarantee of future results.” However, when it comes to range patterns, I keep track of where price has been in the past 15 bars. Do the math because that’s exactly how far you can expect price to move in the opposite direction in the next 15 bars.
4 - After a trend, it only takes 7 bars of time in the range pattern to tell me which direction is coming next. Add the 50 simple moving average to your chart. If price crosses that line and stays below it for more than 7 bars, it’s probably not going to return to the trend any time soon.
5 - The best range trades happen when your expected high or low is suddenly obliterated. Huh? It's true, and this is my secret weapon in trading. If price breaks out of a well established range pattern, immediately place pending orders to trade in the opposite direction. If price fails the breakout (which it usually does), it comes barreling back through the range pattern, and those trades move into profit very quickly.