Reaction levels guide
A practical markup sequence we teach before the London open — from outer range boundaries to mid-session pivots.
Reaction levels are prices where buying or selling previously absorbed momentum during consolidation. This guide walks through the five-step morning routine used in our flagship workshop and Reaction Level Mapping Clinic. Print your chart, follow the steps, and keep fewer than six lines on screen.
Confirm the range is active
Before marking reactions, verify price is consolidating. Look for at least two touches on both upper and lower boundaries across recent sessions. If price is trending — consecutive closes beyond prior extremes — reaction levels inside an old box will mislead you.
Mark outer boundaries
Draw horizontal lines at the highest high and lowest low where price reversed twice without sustained breaks. Extend lines across the chart and note the date of each touch in the margin. These are your primary reaction levels.
Add mid-range pivots
Scan between boundaries for prices where candles wick and reverse at least twice. Do not assume the midpoint — pivots often sit off-centre. Label each pivot with the session that created it.
Carry forward yesterday's levels
Mark yesterday's range high, low, and afternoon stall point. When today's session opens inside yesterday's structure, these levels frequently react on the first return. Delete them if price establishes a clearly new box.
Plan entries at reactions, not in noise
Stage orders only when price approaches a marked level with slowing momentum — smaller bodies, repeated wicks, or failed micro-breaks. Mid-range entries without a pivot are optional and smaller size. Journal which level triggered the plan.
Quick reference card
| Level type | Minimum evidence |
|---|---|
| Upper boundary | Two highs within similar price zone |
| Lower boundary | Two lows with rejection wicks |
| Mid-range pivot | Two reversals without touching edges |
| Prior session carry | One clear stall visible on daily |
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