When You Learn Technical Analysis, Don't Forget The Ascending Continuation Triangle

By Chris Blanchet

Although we have already looked at a Classic Pattern in the Learn Technical Analysis Free series, another important pattern to understand early on is the Ascending Continuation Triangle. This pattern is formed by two converging trendlines -- a horizontal upper line that scrapes along two steady "highs" of a trading range and an increasing lower line that follows two higher lows of the same range.

For investors who want to learn technical analysis, the Ascending Continuation Triangle is an important pattern as it provides us with a Bullish trading signal. Since the pattern is normally a short-term pattern that takes shape over one to three months, investors are able to quickly lock in gains and reverse their position without much loss.

Investors who have just begun to learn technical analysis will actually find it more difficult to remain patient as they confirm the pattern than it is to spot the pattern. For confirmation, investors should look for the following.

Volume

This is considered one of the most important factors when confirming this pattern. What investors need to see is that volume diminishes as the pattern takes shape and then spikes at breakout (pattern confirmation). Conversely, if there is no spike at breakout, then the pattern is considered less reliable or even false.

Moving Average

The Moving Average should also be taken into consideration. If the pattern's prices touch or come close to the 200-day moving average, then the pattern is considered strong.

Duration

For people who are just starting to learn technical analysis, keep in mind that the break-out (penetration of the upper, horizontal line) should happen well before the pattern actually reaches the apex of the triangle (the right-most tip). In fact, break-out should occur roughly three-quarters to two-thirds of the way along the upper line.

For investors seeking an explanation as to who this pattern occurs from a fundamental basis, consider a company or large shareholder who wants to sell only at a predetermined price. When the price reaches such levels, the supply of stock will dwindle and push the price down. Until that supply is depleted, this price level will form a resistance line (the upper, horizontal line). However, once this supply is exhausted, the price will break out, which is where people who want to learn technical analysis will see confirmation of such a pattern. - 23208

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