Head and Shoulders

Definition
One of the most recognizable and reliable reversal patterns. It consists of three consecutive peaks: the middle one (“head”) is higher than the two side ones (“shoulders”).

How to Identify

  • Forms after an uptrend.
  • First peak — left shoulder.
  • Second, higher peak — head.
  • Third peak at the level of the first shoulder.
  • Support line connects the lows between the peaks (the neckline).

Trading Rules

  • Entry: Sell on a breakout below the neckline.
  • Stop-loss: Above the right shoulder.
  • Target: Project the distance from the head to the neckline downward.

Example
The pattern often appears on daily charts of currency pairs after prolonged rallies.

Conclusion
A reliable reversal pattern, especially effective when confirmed by volume.