What Is the M Pattern?
The M pattern is a classic bearish reversal signal in technical analysis. It forms after an uptrend and suggests that upward momentum is weakening. The pattern looks like the letter “M” — price peaks twice at a similar level, failing to break higher, and then drops below the support between the peaks.
- Represents a double top: two similar highs with a pullback in between
- Signals buyer exhaustion and potential for trend reversal
- Common in forex, crypto, stocks, and indices
- Becomes more reliable near major resistance levels
How the M Pattern Forms
Traders watch the sequence of highs and lows closely. The second high often shows less strength than the first, indicating that the market may be losing steam.
- First peak: Buyers push price up
- Pullback: Sellers take profits, creating a dip
- Second peak: Buyers try again but fail to break the previous high
- Neckline: The low between peaks acts as support
- Breakdown: A drop below the neckline confirms the pattern and potential entry
How Traders Use It
The M pattern offers a clear framework for making trading decisions — from identifying entry points to setting risk levels and targets.
- Entry: Traders often go short after a confirmed break below the neckline
- Stop-loss: Placed above the second top to manage risk
- Target: Measured from the height of the pattern (top to neckline), projected downward
- Can be combined with volume indicators or moving averages for more confirmation
Why It Matters
This pattern is easy to recognize and works across timeframes, making it a favorite for intraday, swing, and even long-term traders.
- Provides visual clarity for spotting reversals
- Works well with other technical tools like RSI or support/resistance
- Helps avoid fakeouts by waiting for a break of structure (neckline)
- Useful in trending markets to catch early shifts in direction
