Beginner2 min readLast updated: 2026-06-10
Shooting Star Pattern — Complete Guide
Master the Shooting Star bearish reversal pattern. Learn identification, psychology, and precise trading strategies.
What is the Shooting Star?
The Shooting Star is a bearish reversal pattern that forms at the top of an uptrend. It shows buyers pushed price high but sellers overwhelmed them, pushing price back down to close near the open.
Identification Rules
| Component | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Body | Small body at the LOWER end of the range |
| Upper wick | At least 2× the body length |
| Lower wick | Very small or non-existent |
| Location | Must appear after an uptrend or at resistance |
Shooting Star:
┃
┃ ← Long upper wick (2x+ body)
┃
┏┓ ← Small body (bottom of range)
┗┛
┃ ← Small/no lower wick
Psychology
- Uptrend continues, buyers push price to new high
- Strong selling pressure enters at the high
- Sellers overwhelm buyers, push price back to open
- Message: Buyers reached exhaustion — sellers are taking control
How to Trade
Entry:
- Below the Shooting Star's low on next candle confirmation
- Or at close of the Shooting Star (aggressive)
Stop Loss:
- Above the Shooting Star's high (upper wick tip) + buffer
Take Profit:
- Next support level or swing low
- Minimum 1:2 R:R
Best Locations:
- At major resistance levels
- At Order Block (supply zone)
- After extended uptrend (exhaustion)
- At Fibonacci extension levels (127.2%, 161.8%)
Related Topics
- Hanging Man — Similar bearish signal
- Reversal Concepts — Context for reversals
- Candlestick Psychology — Reading rejection