I've noticed that many traders get confused by chart patterns and miss good entry points. I decided to take a closer look at the most popular models — descending, ascending triangles, and symmetrical options. Each of them works differently and provides different signals.

Let's start with the descending triangle. This is a bearish pattern where horizontal support at the bottom meets a descending resistance line. See how the price can't rise above each time but maintains the lower level? This signals that sellers are exerting increasing pressure. When the price breaks support with rising volume, it usually indicates a continuation of the decline. I set a stop-loss above the last peak and wait for a new support level to close the position. The main thing is not to get caught by false breakouts on low volumes.

The ascending triangle is a completely different story. Here, there's a horizontal resistance line at the top, and support is rising. This is a bullish signal, often found in the middle of an uptrend. Buyers gradually take control, each time raising the bottom higher. When the price breaks the upper line with increased volume, it's a good moment to enter a long position. I place the stop below the last support. The ascending triangle works especially well if there's already a clear uptrend.

The symmetrical triangle is a consolidation. Resistance is decreasing, support is rising, and the price is squeezing. The pattern is neutral and can break in either direction. The key is to wait for a clear breakout and a decrease in volume before it. If the price breaks upward, I open a long; if downward, a short. I set the stop on the opposite side of the last line.

The expanding triangle is the most unpredictable. Lines diverge, volatility increases, signaling instability. Entering should be more cautious, waiting for a clear breakout. Such patterns often appear before important news or in volatile markets. I place the stop-loss further away, beyond the farthest point of the pattern.

There are a few rules that help improve accuracy. First — watch the volume. If volume increases during a breakout, it confirms the signal. Second — consider the previous trend. The ascending triangle works more reliably in an uptrend, the descending in a downtrend. Third — always use a stop-loss. It protects against unexpected movements.

Chart patterns are not a guarantee but a useful tool for finding entry points. Combining several signals is especially effective. I often test these models on Gate, where it's convenient to analyze different timeframes and pairs. If you're just starting to trade with patterns, begin with the ascending triangle — it's the clearest and most reliable. The rest comes with experience.