Chart PatternsGartley Pattern
Harmonic Patterns

GartleyPattern

"A classic harmonic reversal pattern that identifies high-probability turning zones using price structure and Fibonacci relationships."

Definition

Markets often correct in structured, proportional ways. In a Gartley pattern, price makes an initial impulse (XA), retraces in a controlled manner (AB), corrects again (BC), and then completes a final move (CD) that aligns with key Fibonacci levels. This alignment reflects balance between buyers and sellers. At completion, momentum often weakens, making point D a critical decision zone rather than an automatic entry point.

Simple Explanation

"Ideally, it is a complex pullback that looks like a letter "M" or "W". It uses math ratios to tell you exactly where the pullback should end and the main trend should resume."

Core Message

  • Reversals often occur at Fibonacci confluence zones
  • Corrections follow proportional, repeatable structures
  • The pattern defines a high-probability area, not certainty
  • Confirmation is essential before execution

Visual Interpretation

XA Leg (Impulse)

Strong directional move establishing the trend foundation.

AB Leg (Retracement)

Price retraces approx 61.8% of XA. A healthy correction.

BC Leg (Correction)

Price moves in XA direction, retracing 38.2%-88.6% of AB.

CD Leg (Completion)

Final leg completing at 78.6% retracement of XA (The PRZ).

Summary

"Visually, the Gartley pattern looks like a complex zigzag within a trend. The most important aspect is Fibonacci confluence at point D."

Market Psychology

Phase 1

Direction

  • The XA leg reflects strong conviction. One side of the market is dominant.
Phase 2

Healthy Pullback

  • AB retracement shows profit booking without panic, maintaining structure.
Phase 3

Balance

  • During BC, buyers and sellers reassess value, leading to smaller, controlled swings.
Phase 4

Reassessment

  • At Point D, participants reassess risk-reward, often leading to a reversal.

Identification Rules

1

XA

Identify a clear impulse leg.

2

AB

AB should retrace approx 61.8% of XA.

3

BC

BC retracement 38.2% to 88.6% of AB.

4

CD

CD completes near 78.6% retracement of XA.

5

AB=CD

AB=CD symmetry within the pattern strengthens reliability.

Execution Strategy

1

Entry Signal

Enter at D (0.786 of XA)

2

Stop Loss

Stop loss below X

3

Take Profit

Target 0.382 and 0.618 of AD

Signal Confirmation

Is the PRZ valid?

  • Reversal candlestick patterns at PRZ (Point D)
  • Momentum divergence near point D
  • Volume slowdown or rejection
  • Break of short-term structure

Caution: Do not trade just because you drew lines. Wait for the market to respect the lines.

Common Mistakes

Myth: Guaranteed reversal

It defines probability zones, not certainty.

Myth: Works only on high timeframes

It appears across all timeframes with proper structure.

How to Trade: Gartley Pattern

Step-by-step masterclass on trading this pattern profitably.

Coming Soon

Quick Facts

Difficulty
Advanced
Category
Chart Pattern
Type
Reversal

Video Coming Soon

Detailed video breakdown is in production.

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Essential Reading

Technical Analysis For Dummies
Technical Analysis For Dummies

by Barbara Rockefeller

Read Review
Technical Analysis of the Financial Markets
Technical Analysis of the Financial Markets

by John J. Murphy

Read Review
Encyclopedia of Chart Patterns
Encyclopedia of Chart Patterns

by Thomas N. Bulkowski

Read Review

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Written By: Editorial Team

Disclaimer: While due care has been taken to ensure the accuracy, clarity, and relevance of the information, the content is intended solely for educational purposes. Financial terms and concepts are interpretative tools; readers are strongly advised to verify information from multiple sources and apply their own judgment. This content does not constitute financial, investment, or advisory recommendations of any kind.

Published: Feb 2026Written By: Editorial Team

Disclaimer:While due care is taken to ensure the accuracy and clarity of information provided, the sheer complexity of data arrangements may lead to unintentional discrepancies. This content is for educational purposes only. Financial markets involve significant risk; readers are strongly advised to verify information from multiple sources and apply their own judgment. This does not constitute financial or investment advice.