Beginner2 min readLast updated: 2026-06-10
Doji Candlestick Pattern — Complete Guide
Master the Doji pattern — the ultimate indecision candle. Learn all Doji types, psychology, and when they signal reversals vs. continuation.
What is a Doji?
A Doji forms when the open and close are virtually equal, creating a candle with almost no body. It represents perfect indecision — neither buyers nor sellers could gain control during the session.
Doji Types
| Type | Shape | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Doji | + shape (equal wicks) | Pure indecision |
| Long-legged Doji | + with very long wicks | Extreme indecision, battle |
| Dragonfly Doji | T shape (long lower wick) | Bullish rejection (like Hammer) |
| Gravestone Doji | Inverted T (long upper wick) | Bearish rejection (like Shooting Star) |
Standard: Long-legged: Dragonfly: Gravestone:
┃ ┃ ━ ┃
━ ┃ ┃ ┃
┃ ━ ┃ ━
┃ ┃
┃
Psychology
- Doji = "I don't know" candle — the market is undecided
- After a strong trend, Doji = exhaustion signal (possible reversal)
- In consolidation, Doji = market still deciding (no signal)
- Context determines meaning — a Doji alone means nothing
Trading the Doji
Bullish Signal (at support/after downtrend):
- Dragonfly Doji at support = potential bounce
- Standard Doji after selloff = sellers losing steam
- Confirm with next bullish candle
Bearish Signal (at resistance/after uptrend):
- Gravestone Doji at resistance = potential reversal down
- Standard Doji after rally = buyers losing steam
- Confirm with next bearish candle
NOT a Signal:
- Doji in the middle of a range (just noise)
- Doji with no context (no nearby S/R, no trend)
- Multiple Dojis in a row (just consolidation)
Key Rule
A Doji is NOT a trade signal by itself. It's a WARNING that momentum may be shifting. Always wait for the NEXT candle to confirm direction before entering.
Related Topics
- Spinning Top — Similar indecision
- Candlestick Psychology — Reading indecision
- Reversal Concepts — Doji at turning points