Elliott Wave Analysis is a method of technical analysis used to analyze financial market cycles and predict future price movements. It is based on the idea that the market moves in predictable waves or patterns, and that these waves can be used to identify potential price levels and trends.
Where Elliott Wave came from
Elliott Wave Analysis is a method of technical analysis that was developed by Ralph Nelson Elliott in the 1930s. Elliott was a professional accountant and a student of the stock market. He observed that the market moves in waves or patterns, and that these waves can be used to predict future price movements.
Elliott’s theory was based on the idea that the market moves in five waves in the direction of the trend, followed by three corrective waves against the trend. He believed that these waves were driven by the psychology of market participants, and that they could be used to predict future market trends.
Elliott’s work was initially met with skepticism by the financial community, but it gained popularity over time. Elliott published his theory in a book called “The Wave Principle” in 1938. He continued to refine and develop his theory throughout his life, and it has since become a popular method of technical analysis among traders and investors.
Today, Elliott Wave Analysis is used by traders and investors around the world to analyze financial markets and make trading decisions. It is often used in conjunction with other technical indicators and fundamental analysis to gain a more complete picture of market trends and potential trade opportunities.
Chart Waves in details
The Elliott Wave theory is based on the idea that the market moves in five waves in the direction of the trend, followed by three corrective waves against the trend. The five waves are labeled 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5, while the three corrective waves are labeled A, B, and C.
Here is an example of Elliott Wave Analysis applied to a stock chart:
In this chart of Apple Inc (AAPL), we can see the five-wave pattern labeled as 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5, followed by the three corrective waves labeled as A, B, and C.
Wave 1 is the initial move up, followed by Wave 2, which is a corrective wave down. Wave 3 is the strongest and longest wave, followed by Wave 4, which is a corrective wave. Wave 5 is the final wave in the direction of the trend.
After the completion of Wave 5, the market goes through a correction, which is labeled as Wave A. This is followed by Wave B, which is a corrective wave up. Finally, Wave C is the final corrective wave down, which completes the correction.
Traders who use Elliott Wave Analysis look for patterns like this in financial markets and use them to predict future price movements. By identifying the waves and the direction of the trend, traders can determine potential entry and exit points for their trades.
It is important to note that Elliott Wave Analysis is a complex and subjective method of analysis, and requires a significant amount of practice and experience to use effectively.
What timeframes to use to trade with Elliott Wave strategy
The timeframe for Elliott Wave Analysis depends on the trading style and strategy of the trader. Elliott Wave Analysis can be used on any timeframe, from intraday charts to weekly or monthly charts. However, the longer the timeframe, the more reliable the analysis is likely to be.
Short-term traders may use Elliott Wave Analysis on hourly or daily charts to identify short-term trends and potential entry and exit points. Medium-term traders may use Elliott Wave Analysis on daily or weekly charts to identify longer-term trends and potential trade opportunities. Long-term investors may use Elliott Wave Analysis on monthly or quarterly charts to identify major market cycles and long-term investment opportunities.
It is important to note that Elliott Wave Analysis is not a foolproof method of analysis and should be used in conjunction with other technical indicators and fundamental analysis to make trading decisions. Traders should also use proper risk management techniques to manage their trades and minimize potential losses.
Overall, the timeframe for using Elliott Wave Analysis depends on the trader’s personal preference and trading style, and should be tailored to their individual needs and goals.