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Neutral patternsNeutralReliability: variable

Symmetrical Triangle

Also known as: Coil

Falling highs and rising lows converge. The direction is open – only the breakout decides which way it goes.

Schematic illustration – idealized shape.

How it forms

A falling upper and a rising lower trendline form a symmetrical triangle. Price swings with shrinking range, and volume dries up toward the apex.

How it is typically traded

Entry

On a confirmed breakout from the triangle – in the direction of the break, do not position beforehand.

Target

The height of the triangle at its widest point, projected from the breakout in the breakout's direction.

Stop-loss

On the opposite side of the breakout.

Where & when – and the limits

Tends to continue the prior trend but is fundamentally direction-neutral. False breaks are common – wait for confirmation (close/volume) instead of guessing the direction.

Education, not investment advice. Chart patterns describe probabilities, not guarantees – they fail regularly. Always manage risk with stop-loss and position size.

Learn more in the academy