Symmetrical Triangle Pattern

Learn to recognize and trade a symmetrical triangle pattern through interactive charts.

This blog is reader-supported. Please open a trading account through our links to buy us a coffee. Affiliate commissions keep our reviews impartial and ad-free.

What is a symmetrical triangle pattern?

A symmetrical triangle is a consolidation pattern in a trend, which could be either up or down. It is similar to a pennant, except that it unfolds over a longer period.

On average, 75% of symmetrical triangles are continuation patterns and 25% are reversals. This means that you should wait for a breakout either up or down, before opening a position.

Interactive charts:

Nike (NKE) Symmetrical Triangle stocks
Cleveland-Cliffs (CLF) Symmetrical Triangle stocks
EURUSD Symmetrical Triangle forex
FTT (FTTUSD) Symmetrical Triangle crypto

Download our free chart patterns PDF for a guide to 20 classical chart patterns with over 100 interactive charts, also on TradingView.com.

Symmetrical triangle duration

This pattern usually develops over 3 months, but can last anywhere between a few weeks and several months. Patterns that occur over 3 week or less are considered pennants.

Symmetrical triangle characteristics

A symmetrical triangle is formed as two trendlines converge.

This pattern marks a consolidation phase in either an uptrend or a downtrend.
The pattern must contain at least 2 higher lows and 2 lower highs.
The price action should fill the space between both trendlines.

Trading volumes

Trading volumes should fall as the pattern takes shape and prices start trading in a tighter range. You could think of this as the quiet before the storm.

Symmetrical triangle trading tips

Wait for a breakout to open a position. Go long if the price breaks above resistance, and short otherwise. The ideal breakout occurs 50% to 75% through the pattern. Breakouts that occur earlier may be premature. The breakout must occur on rising volume to be valid.