Multi-Timeframe Analysis
Multi-timeframe analysis (MTF) is a top-down trading process: define the market context on a higher timeframe, select the setup on a middle timeframe, then execute on a lower timeframe. This is used widely because higher timeframes typically show cleaner structure, while lower timeframes help with precision.
What MTF is
HTF defines direction & major zones
Mid TF finds the setup (pullback/retest/range)
LTF executes (trigger + stop + sizing)
What MTF is NOT
Not checking 6–10 timeframes
Not forcing perfect alignment
Not a guarantee — improves decision quality
Workflow (fast, repeatable)
A professional process reduces randomness: same steps, every trade.
1) Context (HTF)
Decide “where we are”
Trend + structure
2–4 major zones
Avoid big obstacles
2) Setup (Mid)
Decide “what we trade”
Pullback to zone
Break & retest
Range boundary
3) Execution (LTF)
Decide “how we enter”
Trigger confirmation
Stop at invalidation
Size by risk plan
Decision Map
Ask the right question at each timeframe.
HTF
“What’s the context?”
Trend direction
Major zones
Mid
“What’s the setup?”
Pullback / retest
Range boundary
LTF
“How do I execute?”
Trigger + stop
Sizing
Correct MTF rule
Lower timeframe = precision. Higher timeframe = direction & key obstacles. Counter-trend trades should be planned (smaller size + stricter confirmation).
Timeframe selection (simple & correct)
A practical MTF model uses 3 timeframes. A common guideline is spacing them roughly 4× to 6× to reduce redundancy and keep signals distinct.
Professional guideline
Pick the entry TF first (where you execute)
Go 4×–6× higher for setup
Go 4×–6× higher again for context
Keep the same model to measure results fairly
Common 3-TF combos
| Style | Context (HTF) | Setup (Mid) | Entry (LTF) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Swing | D1 | H4 | H1 |
| Intraday | H4 | H1 | M15 |
| Scalp (advanced) | H1 | M15 | M5 |
Lower timeframes increase noise and execution sensitivity — scalping requires strict discipline and risk control.
Entry triggers (execution tools)
Triggers are not “signals” alone. Use them after HTF context + Mid setup are defined.
Rejection at zone (bounce) ▾
Break & retest (structure shift) ▾
Range edge execution ▾
Quick execution notes
Stop = invalidation (where the idea is wrong)
Don’t override HTF unless you have a defined counter-trend plan
Size by risk, not by emotion
Risk & invalidation (professional rules)
MTF improves context, but risk control decides outcomes. These are standard principles for consistent execution.
Stop = invalidation
Place the stop where the idea is clearly wrong (beyond the level/zone), not “tight for comfort”.
Avoid HTF obstacles
Don’t buy into major HTF resistance or sell into major HTF support without a specific plan.
Counter-trend = stricter
If trading against HTF trend, reduce size and require stronger confirmation.
Pre-trade checklist (fast scan)
Use this to stay consistent and reduce impulsive trades.
Context (HTF)
Trend direction clear?
2–4 major zones marked?
Any big obstacle near entry?
Setup + execution
Setup aligned with HTF?
Trigger confirmed on LTF?
Stop at invalidation + sized by risk?