Continuation pattern

Bull Flag Pattern

A sharp advance followed by a controlled downward or sideways channel before a possible continuation higher.

Bull Flag Pattern

Original schematic showing the guide's principal visual relationships.

Bull Flag PatternA sharp advance followed by a controlled downward or sideways channel before a possible continuation higher.

Pattern anatomy

A sharp advance followed by a controlled downward or sideways channel before a possible continuation higher.

Strong flagpole → shallow countertrend flag → breakout above flag resistance.

How it works

Identify the prior trend first, mark repeated swing highs and lows, then draw only the support, resistance, or neckline justified by those pivots. A pattern remains provisional until price closes beyond its confirmation boundary; visual resemblance alone is not enough.

How to read it

The flag should retrace only part of the impulse and generally show quieter participation. The flagpole length is sometimes projected from the breakout.

Confirmation checklist

Confirm a clear impulse before the consolidation, controlled price compression during formation, and a close beyond the continuation boundary. Volume often contracts during the pause and expands on breakout.

Limitations and false signals

Deep retracements, expanding volatility, or a break below the flag low suggest distribution rather than a healthy pause.