If we look at most charts, we see that there
are certain levels where selling pressure subsides and the
trend will shift as price increases. When this happens, we
can assume that this level will retain its significance when
price approaches it again. This is known as support, as the
securities price is supported at this level. Conversly, resistance
is the level where the securities price has shown an inability
to rise anymore, and a reversal to the downside can be expected.
As we see price approach these levels, we
can usually expect a revesal in trend. However, what if price
exceeds these levels? This is still a tradable situation.
A break of these levels mean that current market conditions
have pushed price beyond a historical reversal point, and
a continuation of the current trend can be expected.
Also, it is important to remember that when
one of these levels is broken, they will often "change roles" and
behave as their counterpart. For example, if price sufficiently
moves through a support level, this level still has significance
and it should now be viewed as a resistance level.
Practice identifying support and resistance
levels when you are looking at charts. They are easy spot,
easy to understand, and paramount when making trading decisions.