Why You Should Avoid Trading Standard Patterns: Deeper Analysis

Trading based on technical analysis is a popular way for traders to identify market opportunities. One of the most common methods of technical analysis is the use of chart patterns. These patterns are recognizable formations created by price movements on a chart.

Traders use these patterns to identify potential areas of support and resistance, as well as trend reversals. However, there are several reasons why you should avoid trading standard patterns:

1. Widespread Awareness and Anticipation:

Standard patterns are well-known and widely anticipated by market participants. This means that they are already priced in, making trading them a low-probability strategy.

2. Potential for False Signals:

The formation of a pattern on a chart does not guarantee the expected outcome. In fact, standard patterns can often lead to false breakouts and failed trades.

3. Difficulty in Trading Effectively:

Trading standard patterns effectively requires a high level of skill and experience. Without a deep understanding of market structure and price behavior, traders can easily fall victim to false signals and whipsaws.
Advantages of Trading Liquidity Patterns:

Liquidity patterns offer a more effective and reliable alternative to standard patterns. These patterns are based on the concept of market liquidity, which refers to the ease with which an asset can be bought or sold without impacting its price. By identifying areas of high and low liquidity, traders can gain an edge in the market.

In-depth Analysis of Popular Patterns:

1. Double Bottom:

The classic double bottom pattern is a bullish reversal pattern that forms when the price of an asset makes two consecutive lows at the same level, followed by a rally.
However, the standard double bottom pattern has a significant drawback: it leaves liquidity below the lows, which can lead to false breakouts and failed trades.
A more effective way to trade this pattern is to look for a lower low. This occurs when the price makes a new low below the previous two lows. This indicates that the market is absorbing all the sell liquidity and is ready to move higher.

2. Triangle:

A triangle is a consolidation pattern that forms when the price of an asset ranges between two converging trendlines.
Traders often look for breakout trades in triangles, but this can be risky.
False breakouts are a common occurrence in triangle patterns.
This is because market makers often manipulate the price to induce traders to break out of the pattern, only to reverse the price and trap them in losing trades.
A more effective way to trade triangles is to look for liquidity grabs. This occurs when the price moves outside of the triangle, only to quickly return back inside. This indicates that market makers are taking liquidity from the market and are preparing to move the price in the opposite direction.
Practical Tips for Trading Liquidity Patterns:

Always trade with the trend. Liquidity patterns are most effective when they are traded in the direction of the overall trend.
Use stop-loss orders to protect your downside. This will help to limit your losses if the trade does not go your way.
Be patient and wait for the right setup. Don't force trades and only take those that meet your criteria.

Additional Considerations:

Market context: It is important to consider the overall market context when trading liquidity patterns. For example, patterns are more likely to be successful in trending markets than in range-bound markets.

Risk management: Always use sound risk management principles when trading, regardless of the pattern you are using. This includes using stop-loss orders and position sizing appropriately.

False signals: It is important to be aware of the potential for false signals when trading liquidity patterns. Not all patterns will lead to successful trades, and it is important to be prepared for losses.