Importance of Size in Engulfing Patterns

1. Strength of the Signal:

   • Larger Engulfing Candles: Generally, larger engulfing candles provide a stronger signal. A large bullish engulfing candle suggests a strong buying interest, while a large bearish engulfing candle indicates strong selling pressure.
   • Smaller Engulfing Candles: While still valid, smaller engulfing candles may indicate a less decisive move and can be less reliable as a standalone signal.

2. Volume Consideration:

   • High Volume: An engulfing pattern with high trading volume is more significant. It suggests that the engulfing move has strong participation and is more likely to lead to a sustained price reversal.
   • Low Volume: An engulfing pattern on low volume may be less reliable, as it might not have enough market participation to continue the reversal.

3. Context within Trend:

   • End of Trend: An engulfing pattern occurring at the end of a well-defined trend is more meaningful. For instance, a bullish engulfing pattern after a prolonged downtrend is a stronger signal for a potential reversal.
   • During Consolidation: Engulfing patterns occurring within a consolidation phase may indicate the start of a new trend direction.

Practical Application

When analyzing engulfing patterns, consider the following:

1. Relative Size:

   • Compare the engulfing candle's size to the previous candles. A significantly larger candle provides a stronger signal.

2. Volume Analysis:

   • Check the volume accompanying the engulfing pattern. Higher volume increases the reliability of the signal.

3. Pattern Location:

   • Identify where the pattern appears within the trend. Patterns at key support or resistance levels are more significant.

Example Analysis

1. Strong Bullish Engulfing:

   • Large green candle engulfing a small red candle.
   • Appears at the end of a downtrend.
   • Accompanied by high volume.

2. Weak Bearish Engulfing:

   • Small red candle engulfing a slightly smaller green candle.
   • Occurs during a sideways market.
   • Low volume.

By considering the size of the engulfing candle, the volume, and the context within the overall trend, you can make more informed trading decisions. Engulfing patterns with these favorable characteristics are more likely to indicate a significant reversal or continuation of the trend.