Learn Technical Analysis – The Inside Bar
As far as learning technical analysis goes, many investors will make short-term trades based on longer-term, "solid" patterns such as the head and s...
As far as learning technical analysis goes, many investors will make short-term trades based on longer-term, “solid” patterns such as the head and shoulders top covered previously in this series. The problem with relying on solid patterns is that they are generally longer-term in nature and may not produce the short-term returns one hopes for.
The inside bar pattern is one such pattern from which investors can take short-term cues. This pattern indicates a possible change in investor sentiment in the short-term. In other words, if the overall trend has been heading down, the inside bar often indicates a reversal in that trend.
Discovering an Inside Bar Pattern
When investors are learning technical analysis, spotting the inside bar pattern can be difficult. (See our website for a graphical representation). Basically, an inside bar pattern consists of a longer bar (wide trading range) followed by a shorter bar (small trading range). The second bar forms completely within the range of the preceding bar.
Supporting Criteria
When it comes to using the inside bar to commit to a trade, investors should seek additional confirmation through additional analysis. This step is often overlooked when investors start learning technical analysis. Other analysis includes fundamental data for the security, sector and market, as well as technical data such as support and resistance levels and momentum.
In terms of the inside bar itself, investors will find greater reliability when they discover the bar that follows a sharper inbound trend. As well, the wider the first bar and shorter the following bar, the better as this indicates the stronger momentum has ended, and the possibility for a more dramatic turn.
Lastly, investors should notice that volume on the smaller bar is lighter. This suggests a more balanced trading activity.
For investors learning technical analysis, please remember that no single indicator should be used in isolation. Confirmation is highly recommended from other tools. For investors who would prefer a hands-off approach, there are trading software programs that will simply make buy or sell calls.
Chris Blanchet has more than 16 years of experience as a Financial Advisor. As the Fund Advisor for , he was instrumental in helping people determine
