Double Top and Double Bottom
Chart Patterns Explained
Learn the structure of double top and double bottom reversal patterns, and how they're commonly discussed as being confirmed.
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This lesson explains double top and double bottom patterns, reversal patterns formed by two tests of a level, connecting directly to the multiple tests of a level lesson from the earlier Support and Resistance unit.
This structure has been verified against multiple technical analysis education sources.
The Double Top Pattern
A double top forms when price rises to a resistance level, pulls back, rises again to test that same approximate level a second time, and then fails to break through, subsequently declining — generally resembling the letter "M" on a chart. This connects directly to the multiple tests of a level concept covered in the earlier Support and Resistance unit, which noted differing views on whether repeated tests strengthen or weaken a level.
The Double Bottom Pattern
A double bottom is the mirror-image bullish version, forming when price falls to a support level, recovers, falls again to test that same approximate level, and then fails to break through, subsequently rising — generally resembling the letter "W."
Confirmation via the Middle Trough or Peak
A double top is generally discussed as being confirmed when price breaks below the trough that formed between the two peaks. A double bottom is generally discussed as being confirmed when price breaks above the peak that formed between the two troughs.
The Commonly Discussed Measured-Move Target
Similar to head and shoulders, a commonly discussed technique projects the height of the pattern (from the peaks/troughs to the middle trough/peak) from the confirmation breakout point. As with all measured-move techniques covered in this unit, this is a general guideline, not a guaranteed prediction.
🔖 Summary
A double top forms when price tests a resistance level twice without breaking through (resembling 'M'), while a double bottom is the mirror-image bullish version testing a support level twice (resembling 'W'), both connecting to the multiple tests of a level concept from the earlier group. Confirmation is generally discussed as occurring on a break below the middle trough (double top) or above the middle peak (double bottom), with measured-move targets remaining general guidelines rather than guaranteed predictions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a double top pattern look like?
Price tests a resistance level twice without breaking through, generally resembling the letter 'M,' followed by a decline.
What does a double bottom pattern look like?
The mirror-image bullish version, with price testing a support level twice, generally resembling the letter 'W,' followed by a rise.
How is a double top generally confirmed?
By a break below the trough that formed between the two peaks.
How is a double bottom generally confirmed?
By a break above the peak that formed between the two troughs.
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