Two-sided pattern · neutral bias
Symmetrical Triangle pattern
A symmetrical triangle forms when lower highs and higher lows converge. It shows a market coiling with neither side in control, and it is resolved by whichever boundary breaks first.
How to identify a symmetrical triangle
- At least two lower highs and two higher lows.
- The two trendlines converge at a similar angle.
- Volatility and candle size usually shrink as price approaches the apex.
What confirms it
A close outside either trendline. The direction of the break sets the bias, not the pattern itself.
What invalidates it
A quick move back inside the triangle after a breakout suggests a false break.
How traders project a target
Use the height of the triangle at its widest point, projected from the breakout level in the direction of the break.
Common mistakes
- Predicting the direction before the break instead of planning for both.
- Drawing lines that ignore some highs or lows to force symmetry.
- Trading breakouts that happen right at the apex, where follow-through is often weak.
Where it appears
It often continues the prior trend, but treat it as two-sided until price commits.
Frequently asked questions
Is a symmetrical triangle bullish or bearish?
Neither by itself. It tends to resolve in the direction of the prior trend, but the breakout direction is what matters.
How is a symmetrical triangle different from a pennant?
A pennant is a small, short-lived triangle that follows a sharp move. A symmetrical triangle can be larger and longer and does not need a preceding spike.
What does it mean if price drifts to the apex without breaking?
The pattern loses meaning. Price often just leaves the apex sideways, and many traders stop treating it as a triangle at that point.
Related chart patterns
Educational content only, not financial advice. Chart patterns describe probabilities, not certainties, and every pattern can fail. See our disclaimer.