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Reversal Patterns

Shark Pattern

Shark Pattern

A pattern where point C is a 1.13–1.618 extension of AB and point D completes at the 0.886 or 1.13 retracement of XA. The structure features an extended right-side high or low, with a BC Projection of 1.618–2.24. The AB=CD ratio is not required for pattern completion.

Key Takeaways

Chapter 4. Other Patterns (Shark, Cypher)

1. Overview

Other patterns refer to special harmonic formations discovered beyond the traditional set (Bat, Gartley, Crab, Butterfly). This chapter focuses on the Shark Pattern and Cypher Pattern, while also consolidating the detailed rules and practical application methods for the Gartley, Crab, Deep Crab, and Butterfly patterns covered in previous chapters.

These patterns share the following common characteristics:

  • 5-point structure (X-A-B-C-D)
  • Extension structure where the right-side high or low exceeds Point A
  • Unique measurement rules distinct from traditional harmonic patterns
  • Strong reversal potential at the PRZ (Potential Reversal Zone)
  • Significantly improved reliability when combined with supplementary tools such as RSI divergence, trendlines, and support/resistance zones rather than used in isolation

What is a PRZ (Potential Reversal Zone)? A PRZ is a price zone where multiple Fibonacci ratios converge, indicating a high probability of price reversal. However, if reversal is not confirmed, it implies trend continuation. Reaching the PRZ alone is not a trade signal.


2. Core Rules and Principles

Shark Pattern

The Shark Pattern was discovered by Scott M. Carney. In the original literature, points are labeled in the order 0-X-A-B-C, but since TradingView's XABCD tool is used in practice, we substitute with the XABCD labeling throughout this guide.

Required Components:

ComponentFibonacci RatioNotes
Point C1.13–1.618 (AB) ExtensionPattern invalid if clearly exceeds 1.618; touching 1.618 is acceptable
Point D (PRZ)0.886 or 1.13 (XA) RetracementMeasured from XA, not XC; both PRZ candidates must be considered
BC Projection (PRZ)1.618–2.24 (BC) ExtensionPattern invalid if exceeds 2.24

Structural Characteristics:

  • Extension structure where the right-side high or low exceeds Point A
  • AB=CD is not critical for pattern completion
  • Relatively few major rules, making it a comparatively simple pattern
  • Once Point C falls within the 1.13–1.618 (AB) range, the pattern is nearly complete
  • Can be used in conjunction with the 5-0 Pattern

Cypher Pattern

The Cypher Pattern was discovered by Darren Oglesbee and uses the most unique measurement criteria among all harmonic patterns.

Required Components:

ComponentFibonacci RatioNotes
Point B0.382–0.786 (XA)Must be less than 0.886 (XA)
Point C1.272–1.414 (AB) ExtensionPattern invalid if exceeds 1.414 → suspect Shark Pattern
Point D (PRZ)0.786 (XC) RetracementMeasured from XC, not XA — the most critical distinction

Structural Characteristics:

  • No AB=CD or BC Projection → the PRZ consists of only Point D
  • Narrower acceptable range for Point C compared to Shark (1.272–1.414 vs. 1.13–1.618)
  • Relatively lower reliability due to fewer Fibonacci ratios converging at the PRZ
  • Provides attractive trading opportunities when combined with supplementary analysis tools

3. Chart Verification Methods

Shark Pattern Verification Procedure

  1. Measure AB Extension

    • Apply the Fibonacci retracement tool to Points A and B.
    • Confirm that Point C falls within the 1.13–1.618 range.
    • The pattern is invalid if 1.618 is clearly exceeded.
  2. Measure XA Retracement

    • Apply the Fibonacci retracement tool to Points X and A.
    • Confirm that Point D is at the 0.886 or 1.13 level.
    • Both PRZ levels must be considered.
  3. Measure BC Projection

    • Apply the Fibonacci extension tool to Points B and C.
    • Confirm the PRZ within the 1.618–2.24 range.
    • The pattern is invalid if 2.24 is exceeded.
  4. PRZ Determination Criteria

    • If 0.886 (XA) occurs where BC Projection falls short of 1.618 → high probability of further extension to 1.13 (XA).
    • If no RSI divergence forms near 0.886 (XA) → suspect continuation to 1.13 (XA).
    • If BC Projection converges with 0.886 (XA) at 1.618 or above → that level is the primary PRZ.

Cypher Pattern Verification Procedure

  1. Measure AB Extension

    • Apply the Fibonacci retracement tool to Points A and B.
    • Confirm that Point C falls within the 1.272–1.414 range.
    • If 1.414 is exceeded, reclassify as a Shark Pattern.
  2. Measure XC Retracement

    • Critical: Apply the Fibonacci retracement tool to Points X and C (not XA).
    • Confirm that Point D is at 0.786 (XC).
    • Confusing this measurement reference is the most common mistake with Cypher Patterns.
  3. Verify Point B Constraint

    • Confirm that Point B does not exceed 0.886 (XA).
    • It should generally fall within the 0.382–0.786 (XA) range.
  4. Confirm with Supplementary Indicators

    • Since there is no AB=CD or BC Projection, the PRZ validity must be verified using RSI divergence, trendlines, support/resistance zones, and other supplementary tools.

4. Common Mistakes and Cautions

Shark Pattern Mistakes

  1. PRZ Selection Errors

    • Frequently only one of 0.886 and 1.13 (XA) is considered.
    • Ignoring the BC Projection value and checking only Point D is dangerous.
    • Remember that if BC Projection falls short of 1.618, there is a high probability of extension to 1.13 (XA).
  2. Ignoring Pattern Range Violations

    • Accepting the pattern when Point C exceeds 1.618 (AB)
    • Judging the pattern valid when BC Projection exceeds 2.24
  3. Failure to Confirm Divergence

    • Expecting reversal at 0.886 (XA) without RSI divergence formation
    • Not checking in advance whether RSI overbought/oversold extremes have formed before price reaches the PRZ

Cypher Pattern Mistakes

  1. Measurement Reference Confusion (Most Critical)

    • Measuring Point D from XA produces an entirely different price level.
    • It must be measured as 0.786 retracement of XC.
  2. Overconfidence in Pattern Reliability

    • Overlooking the fact that without AB=CD and BC Projection, fewer elements converge at the PRZ.
    • Omitting combined analysis with other tools significantly reduces win rate.
  3. Ignoring Point B Constraint

    • Accepting the pattern when Point B exceeds 0.886 (XA)
    • Allowing Point B outside the 0.382–0.786 (XA) range

5. Practical Application Tips

Pattern Identification Priority

  1. When to Prioritize Shark Pattern

    • When an extension structure clearly exceeding Point A is visible on the right side
    • When Point C falls within the 1.13–1.618 (AB) range
    • If the right side protrudes further, suspect a Shark Pattern almost immediately
    • Also consider its relationship with the 5-0 Pattern
  2. When to Consider Cypher Pattern

    • When reversal signals appear near 0.786 (XC)
    • When Point C falls precisely within the narrow 1.272–1.414 (AB) range
    • Exercise caution as its frequency of appearance is relatively low
  3. Key Distinction: Shark vs. Cypher

    • Point C range: Shark (1.13–1.618) vs. Cypher (1.272–1.414)
    • Point D reference: Shark (XA-based) vs. Cypher (XC-based)
    • If Point C exceeds 1.414, suspect Shark rather than Cypher

Risk Management Methods

  1. Shark Pattern

    • When entering at 0.886 (XA), prepare for possible further decline (or rise) to 1.13 (XA).
    • For TP measurement, apply Fibonacci retracement to the A-D leg (not C-D).
    • TP1: 0.382 (AD), TP2: 0.618 (AD)
    • If BC Projection falls short of 1.618, prepare an additional extension scenario.
  2. Cypher Pattern

    • Since PRZ components are limited, always combine with other technical indicators.
    • Refine entry timing with RSI divergence, Stochastic golden/death crosses, etc.
    • Do not force pattern identification due to low frequency of appearance.

Gartley Pattern — Detailed Guide

History and Development

The Gartley Pattern is the original harmonic pattern. H.M. Gartley first introduced it in his 1935 book Profits in the Stock Market, and Scott M. Carney later established specific Fibonacci ratios and differentiated it into multiple patterns.

Initially, the B point ranged broadly from 0.5 to 0.618, making pattern identification difficult. Carney refined this by establishing the 0.382–0.5 B point as the Bat Pattern and the 0.618 B point as the Gartley Pattern. Today, only a precise 0.618 B point qualifies as a Gartley Pattern.

Gartley Pattern Components

ComponentFibonacci RatioRole
Point B0.618 (XA) RetracementPrimary pattern-defining element
Point D0.786 (XA) RetracementPRZ (pattern completion benchmark, most important)
BC Projection1.13–1.618 (BC), must not exceed 1.618PRZ (D point calibration)
AB=CDEquivalent 1AB=CD (1:1 ratio)PRZ (must be fulfilled)
Point C0.382–0.886 (AB) RetracementRelatively less important

Characteristics of Point C

  • Any value between 0.382 and 0.886 satisfies the condition.
  • It must be greater than 0.382 and must not exceed Point A.
  • It is a point of relatively low importance.
  • Experienced traders may estimate by eye, but beginners should always measure directly.

PRZ Components and the AB=CD Relationship

The Gartley Pattern's PRZ requires three elements to converge at a single price zone:

  1. Point D at 0.786 (XA) — Must be fulfilled
  2. BC Projection at 1.13–1.618 (BC) — Must not exceed 1.618
  3. 1AB=CD (Equivalent AB=CD) — Must be fulfilled

Even if AB=CD slightly exceeds the D value, it must still be marked on the chart. Price may later test that level. AB=CD is a critically important PRZ component in the Gartley Pattern.

Verification Cautions for Gartley Pattern

A 0.618 B point and 0.786 D point alone are insufficient to confirm a Gartley Pattern. If 1AB=CD is not fulfilled, there is a high probability it is not a Gartley Pattern.

  • If Point C retracement is shallow (e.g., 0.382 level), 1AB=CD may fall short.
  • Normal case: Bounce from 0.618 B → Point C rises (falls) sufficiently → 1AB=CD fulfilled at 0.786
  • Abnormal case: Bounce from 0.618 B → Point C rises weakly (falls shallowly) → 1AB=CD not fulfilled at 0.786 → Review the possibility of a Crab Pattern

Gartley Pattern and Divergence

Confirming regular divergence near the PRZ before entry significantly enhances pattern reliability.

  • Bullish Gartley: Confirm regular bullish divergence at PRZ (price makes lower low, RSI makes higher low)
  • Bearish Gartley: Confirm regular bearish divergence at PRZ (price makes higher high, RSI makes lower high)

Entering after divergence confirmation yields a higher win rate than blindly entering at the PRZ.

TP (Target Profit) Setting

Measure Points A and D with the Fibonacci retracement tool.

  • TP1: 0.382 (AD)
  • TP2: 0.618 (AD)

Profit-Taking Strategies

  • Method 1: Take profit on 50% of the position at TP1 and maximize gains on the remainder with a trailing stop.
  • Method 2: Move the stop-loss to the PRZ (near entry price) upon reaching TP1 and continue holding.
  • Method 3: Draw a trendline connecting Point D and TP1; close the remaining position when the trendline is breached.

Stop-Loss (SL) Setting

  • General method: Set beyond Point X.
  • Early entry before PRZ test: Refer to candlestick patterns or other technical evidence.
  • Entry after confirmed PRZ test: Set stop-loss beyond Point X.
  • If price does not reverse at the PRZ, it implies trend continuation — stop-loss execution is mandatory.

Gartley Pattern Frequency and Characteristics

Pattern reliability is high, but frequency of appearance is very low. Approximate harmonic pattern occurrence rates are as follows:

PatternApproximate Frequency
Bat60–70%
Crab / Butterfly / Shark~10% each
Gartley / Cypher1–5%

The Gartley Pattern has a wider stop-loss allowance than the Bat Pattern. Since Point D is at 0.786 (XA), it is farther from X than the Bat's 0.886 (XA). Therefore, entering only when a clear reversal signal appears at the PRZ is recommended.


Crab Pattern

Crab Pattern Components

The Crab Pattern has the most extreme extension structure among harmonic patterns and typically appears in overbought/oversold conditions.

ComponentFibonacci RatioRole
Point B0.382–0.618 (XA) RetracementPattern identification element
Point D1.618 (XA) ExtensionPRZ (most important)
BC Projection2.618 / 3.14 / 3.618 (BC)PRZ (D point calibration)
Alternate AB=CD1.272 / 1.618 AB=CDPRZ (relatively less important)
Point C0.382–0.886 (AB) Retracement

Core Principles of the Crab Pattern

  • Waiting for the 1.618 (XA) test is the most common trading approach.
  • While waiting for 1.618 (XA), at minimum confirm that BC Projection and Alternate AB=CD converge near that level.
  • The XA leg typically forms during strong uptrends or downtrends.
  • Unlike other harmonic patterns, AB=CD is not decisive in determining pattern completion.
  • Among the various Alternate AB=CD options, 1.618 AB=CD is most preferred.

Relationship with Elliott Wave Theory

The Crab Pattern is closely related to Elliott Wave Theory.

  • Appearing at the first wave of Wave 3 after a Wave 2 correction
  • Appearing at the junction connecting Wave 5 after a Wave 4 correction
  • Appearing when the C wave impulse in a 3-3-5 Flat ABC correction is powerful

When these Elliott Wave structures overlap with a Crab Pattern, pattern reliability increases substantially.

Perfect Crab Pattern

An astonishingly precise pattern introduced in Harmonic Trading Volume 1.

ComponentFibonacci Ratio
Point BExactly 0.618 (XA)
Point D1.618 (XA)
BC Projection3.14 (BC)
AB=CD1.618 AB=CD
Point C0.5–0.618 (AB)

When all ratios align precisely, the Perfect Crab demonstrates an extremely high reversal probability upon appearance.

TP and Stop-Loss Settings

TP Settings:

  • Measure Points A and D with the Fibonacci retracement tool.
  • TP1: 0.382 (AD)
  • TP2: 0.618 (AD)

Stop-Loss Settings:

  • Break-even or stop-loss upon new high (low) breach is recommended.
  • The Crab Pattern is an extension pattern, making stop-loss placement more challenging than retracement patterns (Bat, Gartley).
  • It is safer to enter after confirming reversal and divergence following the PRZ test.

Deep Crab Pattern

Development of the Deep Crab Pattern

The Deep Crab Pattern evolved from invalid Bat Patterns and special Crab Pattern types. It shares a similar 5-point extension structure with the original Crab Pattern and utilizes the same 1.618 (XA) Projection.

Deep Crab Pattern Components

ComponentDeep CrabOriginal Crab
Point B0.886 (XA), must not exceed X0.382–0.618 (XA)
Point D1.618 (XA); PRZ1.618 (XA); PRZ
BC Projection2.24 / 2.618 / 3.14 / 3.6182.618 / 3.14 / 3.618
Alternate AB=CDOnly 1.272 AB=CD permitted1.272 / 1.618
Point C0.382–0.886 (AB)0.382–0.886 (AB)

Key Differences Between Deep Crab and Original Crab

  • Point B: Deep Crab has a 0.886 (XA) retracement, deeper than the original Crab (0.382–0.618)
  • BC Projection: 2.24 is added for the Deep Crab
  • AB=CD Structure: More important in the Deep Crab, with only 1.272 AB=CD permitted
  • Since Point B is as deep as 0.886, it may sometimes resemble a variation of the Bat Pattern — exercise caution

PRZ Setting Cautions

  • The D value of 1.618 (XA) is the most important PRZ.
  • BC Projection and Alternate AB=CD serve to support the D value of 1.618 (XA).
  • Ideally, BC Projection and AB=CD converge below (Bullish) or above (Bearish) the D value of 1.618 (XA).

Divergence and Entry

  • Confirming regular divergence near the PRZ before entry significantly enhances reliability.
  • Entering after confirmed PRZ test is recommended.
  • Always be aware that stop-loss placement is more challenging with extension patterns than retracement patterns.

TP and SL Settings

TP Settings:

  • TP1: 0.382 (AD)
  • TP2: 0.618 (AD)
  • Measure from the actual high or low near Point D (not the D value itself).

SL Settings:

  • Entry after PRZ test: Stop-loss if price penetrates the PRZ again with a candle body.
  • Entry after divergence confirmation: Set SL at the point where divergence is invalidated.

Profit-Taking Strategy:

  • Take profit on 50% of the position at TP1.
  • Maximize gains on the remainder with a trailing stop.
  • Drawing a trendline from Point D to TP1 and holding until the trend breaks is also effective.

The Meaning of PRZ (Reaffirmed)

  • PRZ (Potential Reversal Zone): A zone of potential reversal.
  • It is a powerful zone where reversal can occur, but if it does not reverse, it signifies trend continuation.
  • If the PRZ is tested too frequently or penetrated by candle bodies, treat it as trend continuation.
  • Do not treat PRZ arrival as a trade signal — always confirm reversal before entering.

Butterfly Pattern

Butterfly Pattern Components

ComponentFibonacci RatioRole
Point B0.786 (XA) RetracementPrimary pattern-defining element
Point D1.27 (XA) ExtensionPRZ (most important)
BC ProjectionMinimum 1.618 (1.618 / 2.0 / 2.24)PRZ
AB=CDEquivalent (1:1) as minimum requirement, 1.27 AB=CD is most commonPRZ
Point C0.382–0.886 (AB) Retracement

Important: The D value must not reach 1.618 (XA). If it does, it becomes a Crab Pattern's D value (Crab has B at 0.618).

Differences from the Crab Pattern

CriterionButterflyCrab
Point D1.27 (XA)1.618 (XA)
Point BExactly 0.786 (XA)0.382–0.618 (XA) range
Typical EnvironmentGeneral trend conditionsOverbought/oversold extremes
AB=CD ImportanceVery important as a valid signalRelatively less important
PRZ LocationAlways at a new high or lowAlways at a new high or low

Perfect Butterfly Pattern

ComponentFibonacci Ratio
Point BExactly 0.786 (XA)
Point D1.27 (XA)
BC Projection1.618 (BC)
AB=CD1.27 AB=CD
Point C0.5–0.886 (AB)

Butterfly Pattern Summary

  • A special 5-point extension structure with valid Fibonacci ratios.
  • The primary pattern-defining element is the 0.786 B point Fibonacci retracement of the XA leg.
  • Only the 1.27 XA Projection is used as the most important PRZ.
  • The 1AB=CD pattern is the minimum requirement for pattern completion, with 1.27 AB=CD being most frequent.
  • Like the Gartley Pattern, it requires exactly one specific B point Fibonacci retracement (Gartley: 0.618, Butterfly: 0.786).

TP Setting Method

Measure Points A and D with the Fibonacci retracement tool.

  • TP1: 0.382 (AD) — Frequently acts as horizontal support/resistance
  • TP2: 0.618 (AD) — Frequently acts as horizontal support/resistance

Profit-Taking Strategies

Recommended methods from Harmonic Trading Volume 1:

  1. Close 50% of the position at TP1.
  2. Maximize gains with a trailing stop.
  3. Draw a trendline connecting Point D and TP1; hold until the trend breaks.
  4. Once price exceeds TP1, adjust the stop-loss on the remaining position up to the PRZ.

Recommended Hybrid Strategy:

  • Reduce 50% of the position at TP1, then draw a trendline from Point D to TP1.
  • Hold with a trailing stop until the trendline breaks.
  • Sell another 50% of the remaining position at TP2.
  • Close the rest when the trend or swing low/high is broken.

Caution: There are cases where price reaches only TP1 (0.382 retracement) and then moves significantly in the opposite direction. Always secure confirmed profits (50% at TP1).

Stop-Loss (SL) Setting

The Butterfly is an extension pattern, so it lacks the clear mechanism of "stop-loss when X is exceeded" found in retracement patterns.

  • Always confirm reversal and divergence at the PRZ before entering.
  • SL Setting Methods:
    1. Set at the previous high or low; re-enter if reversal at the PRZ is confirmed after the stop.
    2. Set with a risk-reward ratio of at least 2:1 or 3:1 relative to the TP.

PRZ Supplementary Tools

Harmonic patterns alone are insufficient for real market engagement. Use the following tools in combination:

  • RSI Divergence — The most fundamental and powerful supplementary tool
  • 5 EMA double bottom (higher lows) or double top (lower highs)
  • Stochastic Golden Cross / Death Cross
  • Horizontal Support/Resistance Zones — Reliability increases when overlapping with TP
  • Trendline Break — Maximizes pattern reliability when price breaks a trendline after reversing at the PRZ

Shark Pattern — Detailed Guide

Shark Pattern Components (Summary)

ComponentFibonacci RatioNotes
Point C1.13–1.618 (AB)Must not exceed 1.618 (touching is acceptable)
Point D0.886 or 1.13 (XA)PRZ (measured from XA, not XC; most important)
BC Projection1.618–2.24 (BC)PRZ, must not exceed 2.24

Point Labeling Convention

  • Original literature: 0XABC order
  • Practical application: Substituted with XABCD to use TradingView's harmonic XABCD tool.

Distinguishing Between 0.886 (XA) and 1.13 (XA) PRZ

The Shark Pattern has two potential PRZs.

  • Reversal at 0.886 (XA): When BC Projection converges at 1.618 or above and RSI divergence forms
  • Extension to 1.13 (XA):
    • When 0.886 (XA) occurs where BC Projection falls short of 1.618
    • When no divergence forms near 0.886 (XA)
    • The closer BC Projection is to 2.24, the higher the probability of extension to 1.13 (XA)

TP Measurement Cautions

  • Measure the Fibonacci retracement using Points A and D.
  • Do not measure using Points C and D — this is a common mistake.
  • TP1: 0.382 (AD), TP2: 0.618 (AD)

Shark Pattern Application Tips

  • If the right side of the pattern protrudes further, suspect a Shark Pattern almost immediately.
  • The Shark Pattern also serves as a precondition for utilizing the 5-0 Pattern.
  • If reversal signals (RSI divergence) appear near 0.786 (XC), suspect a Cypher Pattern.

Early Pattern Identification

All harmonic patterns exhibit strong RSI overbought/oversold extremes before reaching the PRZ. This can be used to gauge pattern validity in advance. If RSI has not reached extreme levels despite price arriving at the PRZ, re-examine the pattern's validity.


Cypher Pattern — Detailed Guide

Cypher Pattern Components (Summary)

ComponentFibonacci RatioNotes
Point B0.382–0.786 (XA)Must be less than 0.886 (XA)
Point C1.272–1.414 (AB)Suspect Shark Pattern if exceeds 1.414
Point D0.786 (XC)PRZ, measured from XC, not XA

There is no AB=CD or BC Projection.

Cypher Pattern Measurement Method

  1. First, measure Points A and B with Fibonacci retracement to confirm the existence of a Point C at 1.272–1.414.
  2. Once Point C is confirmed, measure Points X and C with Fibonacci retracement to derive the 0.786 (XC) Point D.
  3. Final confirmation that Point B is below 0.886 (XA).

Reliability Characteristics of the Cypher Pattern

Because there is no AB=CD or BC Projection beyond Point D, the pattern reliability is relatively lower. However, combining multiple analysis tools creates attractive trading opportunities.

Combined Supplementary Analysis Strategy:

  • RSI Divergence combination — Most effective
  • Trendline analysis — Confirm trendline support/resistance near Point D
  • Horizontal support/resistance zones — Check convergence of historically significant price levels with Point D
  • Stochastic Golden Cross / Death Cross — Additional entry confirmation signal

Cypher Pattern Frequency

The Cypher Pattern appears relatively infrequently (approximately 1–5% of all harmonic patterns), but it must be thoroughly understood. Even when appearing rarely, it offers high-profit opportunities when it strongly converges with other supplementary indicators.


Harmonic Pattern Learning Roadmap

Step-by-Step Learning Sequence

Step 1: Focus on Basic Patterns

Begin your studies with the Bat Pattern and Gartley Pattern. These two are retracement patterns with relatively simple structures and clear stop-loss placement.

Study Method:

  1. Find at least 10 examples of each pattern.
  2. Manually draw the PRZ and TP on each.
  3. Verify RSI divergence at those zones.
  4. Analyze trendline formation characteristics.

Step 2: Live Trading Application

  • Practice repeatedly until you can identify patterns without referencing the numerical criteria.
  • Apply them consistently in live trading.
  • Aim to reduce pattern identification time to under 30 seconds.

Step 3: Advanced Pattern Expansion

After fully mastering Bat and Gartley, expand to Butterfly and Crab patterns. Then add Shark, Cypher, and Deep Crab patterns.

Caution: Attempting to learn all patterns simultaneously will compound confusion. Always learn in stages.


Harmonic Patterns and Consecutive Appearances

Identifying Multiple Patterns on a Single Chart

Harmonic patterns can be found frequently even within small chart windows, and multiple patterns can appear consecutively.

Practical Example (Bitcoin 30-Minute Chart)

  • Yellow: Deep Bearish Crab
  • Red: Bearish Butterfly
  • White: Bullish Shark
  • Blue: Bullish Crab
  • Green: Bearish Cypher

Five or more distinct patterns can be identified simultaneously on a single timeframe. In such cases, prioritize higher timeframe patterns and assign higher priority to patterns whose PRZ converges with more elements.


Simplified Harmonic Pattern Identification Method

Distinguishing the 4 Classic Patterns

When overwhelmed by the number of patterns, simplify using the following sequence.

Priority Screening Method

  1. Screen first by Point B — Narrow pattern candidates based on the B point retracement level.
  2. Final selection by Point D — Confirm the pattern based on Point D location.

Classification by Point B

B Point RetracementCorresponding PatternPattern Type
0.382–0.5 (XA)BatRetracement
0.618 (XA)Gartley / CrabRetracement / Extension
0.786 (XA)ButterflyExtension
0.886 (XA)Deep CrabExtension

Point C conditions are straightforward:

  • It only needs to exceed 0.382 (AB).
  • It must not extend past Point A.

Pattern Type Classification

  • Retracement Patterns (D does not exceed X): Bat, Gartley
  • Extension Patterns (D exceeds X): Crab, Deep Crab, Butterfly, Shark

Right Wing Characteristics of Harmonic Patterns

Chart Patterns in the Segment Approaching Point D

The right wing (C→D segment) of harmonic patterns typically exhibits the following formations:

  • Falling Wedge / Rising Wedge appearances
  • Descending Channel / Ascending Channel formation
  • Declining volume (gradual decrease)

Conditions for Enhanced Reliability

When the following two conditions are met during the PRZ test, pattern reliability is very high:

  1. Regular divergence formation — Confirmed on RSI or Stochastic
  2. Trendline break — Price breaks the descending (ascending) trendline of the right wing

A particularly powerful reversal signal occurs when a wedge pattern completes near Point D while simultaneously forming divergence.


Philosophy and Practical Application of Technical Analysis

Prediction and Response

Technical analysis is about making predictions and then responding accordingly.

  • You must determine that price will rise before buying spot or entering a long position.
  • You must determine that price will fall before selling spot or entering a short position.

Scenario-Based Trading

Strengthen your analysis methodology and maintain flexible responses.

  • Markets change moment to moment.
  • If the initial scenario does not materialize, respond with the next scenario.
  • Enter when the rationale for entry is clear.

Mindset Toward Stop-Losses

Do not fear stop-losses.

  • Reduce the probability of stop-outs through precise analysis.
  • Set favorable risk-reward ratios (minimum 2:1 recommended).
  • Recognize that recovery is possible through subsequent trades.

It is impossible to profit exclusively, but methods exist to relatively increase win probability and expand gains. Repeating trades with clear entry rationale builds experience that forms your personal trading big data, leading to account growth and improved trading skill.


Futures Trading Risk Management

Withdrawal Strategy

Survival in futures trading lies in frequent withdrawals.

Reasoning:

  • As capital grows, position sizes naturally increase.
  • Long-accumulated profits can be lost from a single mistake.

Withdrawal Principles:

  • Spot trading: Withdraw a portion of profits.
  • Futures trading: Make it a habit to withdraw a portion of profits. This is the key to long-term survival.

Trade Record Management

  • Conduct extensive backtesting. The process of finding and verifying patterns on historical charts builds the foundation of your skills.
  • Maintain a trading journal. Recording entry rationale, results, and even emotional state becomes invaluable experience.
  • A journal enables objective identification of your personal trading patterns (strengths and weaknesses).

Advanced Principles of TP (Target Profit) Setting

The Relationship Between TP and Support/Resistance Zones

TPs frequently overlap with major support/resistance zones. This occurs because Fibonacci ratios align with the psychological support/resistance levels of market participants.

Practical Application:

  1. Identify historically significant price levels with long wicks.
  2. Identify areas of heavy trading activity (volume profile or price congestion zones).
  3. Check whether TP overlaps with those zones.
  4. If they overlap, extend the TP horizontal line across the chart.

Why extend the TP horizontal line: To visually confirm the overlap between historical support/resistance and the TP. When this convergence is confirmed, the reliability of that TP increases substantially.


Trailing Stop Strategy

Definition of Trailing Stop

When price advances past a significant swing low (for long positions), a strategy of progressively raising the stop-loss to follow the trend.

Advantages and Disadvantages

AdvantagesDisadvantages
Can capture substantial profits in strong trendsMust return partial profits in ranging markets
Protects gains while securing additional profit opportunitiesFrequent stop executions may cause psychological burden

Trailing Stop Execution Method

  1. At position entry: Set stop-loss below the entry point.
  2. Upon reaching a certain profit level: Raise stop-loss to break-even (entry price).
  3. When a new swing low forms: Raise stop-loss to the pullback low within the uptrend.

Position Exit Conditions

  • When the trend breaks
  • When the initially set target (TP2, etc.) is reached
  • When price touches the trailing stop level

Close a portion at the target price and maximize returns on the remainder with a trailing stop — this is an effective trading method.

For example:

  • 50% profit at TP1 → Raise stop-loss to entry price
  • Additional 25% profit at TP2 → Raise stop-loss to TP1
  • Hold remaining 25% with trailing stop until the trend ends

Pre-PRZ Entry Strategy (Advanced)

BAMM (Bat Action Magnet Move) Trading Method

For experienced harmonic pattern traders, trading is possible not only at the PRZ but also during the pattern formation process.

BAMM Principle

This method is based on the premise that "price that breaks Point B from Point C will travel to Point D."

Possible Early Entry Points

  • Point B: Enter toward Point C direction after reversal
  • Point C: Enter toward Point D direction upon B point breach

Prerequisites: You must be proficient in multiple trading methods beyond harmonic patterns (candlestick patterns, trendline analysis, support/resistance analysis, etc.). This is not recommended for beginners.


The Significance of Trendline Breaks

Trendline Break After Pattern Completion

When price reverses at the pattern's PRZ and subsequently breaks a trendline, it signifies the conclusion of one trend.

Related Concepts

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