chart formation

Chart Formation

The graphical representation on a chart of a trend in security prices. Technical analysts identify chart formations for a security and predict future price movements in part by matching current patterns with previous patterns.

chart formation

A series of graphed stock prices or other market variables that form a recognizable pattern that may be used to determine future movements of the charted variable. Chart formations are not always as clearly defined as their users would like; thus, the ability to recognize and use charted data varies among technicians. Also called formation, pattern. See also inverted formation.