Volume indicator

Accumulation/Distribution Line

A cumulative volume line weighted by where each close occurs within its high-low range.

Accumulation/Distribution Line

Original schematic showing the guide's principal visual relationships.

Accumulation/Distribution LineA cumulative volume line weighted by where each close occurs within its high-low range.

Formula and components

A cumulative volume line weighted by where each close occurs within its high-low range.

A/D = prior A/D + [((C−L) − (H−C))/(H−L)] × Volume.

How it works

The indicator transforms price, range, or volume observations over a selected lookback. Shorter settings react faster but create more noise; longer settings respond more slowly and emphasize the underlying regime. Always compare the reading with price structure and timeframe.

How to read it

A rising line suggests closes cluster near period highs; divergence from price can reveal weakening participation.

Confirmation checklist

Confirm that participation supports the price move and compare like-for-like sessions. One unusual print or event-driven spike should not define the entire signal.

Limitations and false signals

The calculation ignores price gaps and can disagree with price when a gap is followed by a close within the opposite side of the range.