W.D. Gann Secrets Revealed
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Key Takeaways
- W.D. Gann’s approach to trading marries technical analysis, geometry, and time cycles, influencing both past and present trading strategies.
- By working to understand Gann’s use of price and time relationships, geometric angles and cardinal squares, traders can identify market trends and decision points.
- Gann’s respect for natural cycles and master charts underscores the value of identifying recurring patterns and historical data in market forecasting.
- To separate the myths from the facts about Gann’s teachings is crucial to applying them properly and continuing to learn about effective trading.
- Contemporary tools like charting software and algorithmic backtesting allow applying Gann’s principles to be more accessible and flexible for modern traders.
- A dedication to ongoing education, prudent risk controls and a willingness to question Gann’s methods underpins decades of successful trading on both sides of the globe.
W.D. Gann secrets revealed takes a deep dive into the trading techniques and instruments employed by legendary market analyst William Delbert Gann. Gann rose to fame with his theories on price patterns, time cycles and geometric angles in markets. Although few bother to read his original writings, many analyze his methods in search of fresh approaches to decipher trends and predict price action. His work encompasses tools such as Gann angles, square of nine charts, and time cycles, which are often used by traders seeking more structure in their market analysis. So readers can understand what’s unique about Gann’s methods, the heart of each method will be illustrated with actual examples and how they remain relevant in contemporary trading.
Who Was W.D. Gann?
He was a legendary trader and market technician born in 1878 in Texas, raised in a farm family in a changing America. His initial occupations, such as selling newspapers on trains, connected him with a variety of characters and narratives about the financial world. This exposure helped shape his unique trading methods and the view of the markets he developed. Lacking much formal education, Gann educated himself through observation and self-study — reading and analyzing how people behaved around money and commerce.
Gann’s principal legacy in finance emerged from his novel forecasting methods to analyze price charts. He employed basic instruments such as angles and time cycles to identify potential future price movements. The 45-degree angle, which he employed to verify equilibrium between price and time, is his most famous tool. He authored a number of books, including How to Make Profits in Commodities and 45 Years in Wall Street, which outlined his concepts and provided actual examples from his trades. Gann believed that markets behaved according to natural laws of repeating cycles, much like the seasons or the tides, providing valuable insights for investors.
Most regarded Gann as a legend because he professed to take giant profits in the markets. Others claim he netted over $50 million during his lifetime, but this figure is disputed. He was secretive about his personal life. He was married more than once. His third wife, much younger than him, was odd for the time. When he passed away in 1955, his estate was worth only a little over $100,000, which made us wonder whether his trading was ever as spectacular as claimed.
Gann’s techniques left an indelible impression on trading. Even today, market analysts employ a few of his tools, such as Gann angles and cycle theory, to decipher market dynamics in stocks, commodities, and more. His work has influenced how traders think about patterns, risk, and timing. Many still consult his charts and books for inspiration, even though much of his methodology remains controversial in the financial markets.
What Are W.D. Gann’s Secrets?
W.D. Gann’s work significantly influenced many aspects of contemporary technical analysis, yet many of his unique trading methods still confound traders. He constructed his methods around the premise that financial markets travel in recurrent cycles, searching for time and price patterns to enhance investment decisions. Gann’s legacy blends a cocktail of tried-and-true methods with controversy and mystery, as some concepts continue to elude full understanding and others remain contentious.
1. Price and Time
Gann thought price and time are connected, moving in cycles that can be quantified. He encouraged traders to observe both, not just the price. When the market reaches a price at an important time, powerful moves can occur.
He employed time cycles — such as 30, 60 and 90 days — to identify probable turning points. For instance, if a stock goes up for 90 days, traders would anticipate a downturn. If you match your trades to these cycles it helps you avoid random entries, and improves your results.
Others employ Gann’s method to time trades, such as entering following a 45-day pullback in a stock that honors this cadence. In 2007, the S&P 500 reversed after a 90 day high, like Gann’s stuff.
2. Geometric Angles
Gann angles are used to measure the strength of a trend and to identify, predict, or confirm price reversals. The best known is the 1×1 angle––one unit of price for one unit of time. Angles such as 2×1 or 1×2 represent quicker or more gradual market moves.
To utilize Gann angles, traders sketch them from significant highs or lows, observing price action around these lines. If price breaks a main angle, it can change the trend. Gann’s angles involve basic mathematics, and they apply well to different chart formats, which makes them applicable to equities, commodities, or foreign exchange.
Gann Angle | Slope (Price:Time) | Trend Signal |
---|---|---|
1×1 | 45° (1:1) | Balanced trend |
2×1 | Steeper (2:1) | Strong/bullish trend |
1×2 | Flatter (1:2) | Weak/bearish trend |
3. Cardinal Squares
Cardinal squares are matrices that reveal where price could halt or turn. Gann would use them to delineate support and resistance. He perceived these grids as grounded in ancient math and astrology.
To utilize cardinal squares, traders superimpose the grid onto price charts, then anticipate important levels where price frequently responds. Gann thought these squares worked in every market type and were part of his “secret” toolkit.
4. Natural Cycles
Gann observed natural rhythms, such as planet movements, sunspots, and extended time periods. He observed 60-year and 90-year cyclical economic events and stock markets. A few traders still follow these cycles even today, eager to catch hot turns.
He linked market moves to eclipses, planetary angles and world events. In the 1929 crash, Gann referenced cycle analysis, demonstrating how long-term cycles may signal danger.
5. The Master Charts
Master charts mash Gann’s instruments into a single plot for traders. These charts graph price, time, angles, and cycles all together. They assist in predicting potential price trajectories.
To create master charts, traders chart cycles, angles and price levels from historical data. Back in the 1970s, gold price spikes corresponded with Gann’s master chart. These charts require practice, but there’s something about their shape that some users like.
Separating Myth From Method
W.D. Gann’s methods have been controversial for decades, particularly in the realm of trading philosophy. Much of his work lies at the intersection of fact and fiction, with most not knowing where truth ends and myth begins. The imperative of distinguishing myth from method is obvious to any investor hoping to draw insights from his legacy. Gann fused time cycles, geometry, and vibrational science in his trading methods. Some regard them as robust instruments for forecasting market cycles, while others see them as unproven or even mystical. Shopworn misreadings and myths have influenced how Gann is perceived today — and overlooked the essence of his trading approach, which consists of careful observation, critical analysis, and discipline.
The Astrology Question
Gann’s biography presents a thorny issue, particularly regarding his trading philosophy. In works like The Tunnel Thru the Air, he alluded to astrological insights but never explicitly detailed their application as a forecasting method. While some critics dismiss astrology as myth, others recognize Gann’s use of planetary cycles as pivotal trading signals. This skepticism persists in the financial world, where modern finance often overlooks the potential contributions of celestial events. However, a few market analysts have noted instances where such events coincided with significant market shifts.
Today, pragmatic traders might explore the cycles associated with planetary movements, but they approach it with healthy skepticism. For those interested in profitable trading opportunities, it’s advisable to follow solar dates and correlate them with market moves while also incorporating traditional technical analysis for a balanced approach.
The “Secret” Code
Gann’s writings are frequently referred to as cryptic or coded. He seldom explained his methods, instead sprinkling hints throughout his books. This “secret code” isn’t a formula, it’s a thought hidden in plain sight—e.g. How to use geometry, or time cycles, or numerology to identify market turns. Some traders have attempted to crack this code, discovering patterns in price charts after examining Gann’s clues.
There are success stories, but they tend to mix Gann’s concepts with other instruments. For those who want to decode his work, encounter it instead, read his original texts up close, try out ideas in real time, and eschew shortcut-chasing. The true worth is in the journey, not a one “secret.
The Prophecy Myth
Gann’s legend as a market oracle rests on tales of daring predictions and cryptic foresights. The reality is messier, his real talent was in mixing multiple types of analysis and adhering to rigid trading disciplines.
Although he did make some accurate calls, like observing big moves during major planetary ingresses, they were grounded in method, not magic. His greatest output stemmed from mixing observation with experimentally verifiable principles.
Critical thinking is paramount in considering Gann’s legacy. Not all of them stand up. A lot of the “prophecies” are mythologies that are constructed over time.
Applying Gann Today
Gann’s theories remain relevant in current markets, offering traders unique trading methods that provide insights into price and time. These concepts can assist in forecasting method applications across stocks, forex, and commodities, helping investors identify market dynamics and potential trend reversals, thus gaining a competitive advantage in their trading journey.
Modern Charting
Today’s charting software allows traders to plot Gann fans, angles, and time cycles with precision, enhancing their trading philosophy. Instead of manually charting, these tools can superimpose multiple Gann indicators with a few clicks, simplifying real-time tracking of price movement and time cycles. Gann fans, a core part of his method, draw lines at set angles—most crucially the 45-degree or 1:1 line, which often acts as a key support or resistance. Traders can combine Gann fans with moving averages or RSI to increase precision in their investment decisions. Configuring a chart begins by choosing the peak and bottom, then applying the Gann fan and labeling the corresponding angles. There’s a lot to stay on top of — charting platforms update, new features emerge, so traders must keep learning to get the most out of these digital tools.
Algorithmic Backtesting
Backtesting translates Gann’s concepts into the computer era, enhancing traders’ ability to apply unique trading methods effectively. Traders can now write simple code that uses Gann fans, support/resistance, and time cycles to backtest how such techniques would have worked in previous financial markets. This aids in detecting whether or not a tactic would have been lucrative, providing valuable insights for investment decisions. For instance, certain backtests demonstrate that properly positioned Gann fans can anticipate significant turning points as much as 90% of the time when used in conjunction with other indicators. The big advantage is that traders can test a strategy countless times before putting any money on the line, increasing their probability and their peace of mind. Backtesting assists in tweaking and refining rules, allowing traders to mold Gann’s principles for different market situations or timeframes.
Risk Management
Risk management is crucial in the financial world with Gann’s methods, as it is with any approach. Gann’s unique trading methods emphasized small, calculated trades and tight stop-losses. This minimizes losses and maximizes winners, allowing traders to make informed investment decisions. Some traders use the 1:1 Gann line as a trigger for stop-loss or take-profit levels, providing structure to exits. Planning and discipline come first—without them, even a killer Gann strategy can fall flat.
Actionable Steps
- Learn Gann’s fundamentals — time cycles, price angles.
- Experiment with plotting Gann fans using your charting software, begin with historical data for practice.
- Run backtests to make sure it works elsewhere.
- Always place clear risk controls, stops and take-profits according to key Gann lines.
- Audit your techniques regularly, drawing lessons from both successes and failures.
The Gann Criticisms
Gann’s methods have been controversial for decades, with many in the financial world doubting both his success and the actual utility of his unique trading methods. Others argue that there is no transparent public record of Gann’s own trading successes, suggesting that his prose reads less like evidence and more like ego. Gann himself confessed in 1923 that he had been wiped out more than 40 times, a statement from his publication, Truth of the Stock Tape, that fuels suspicions regarding the validity of his forecasting method.
Skeptics point out that Gann and his disciples appeared to earn more from peddling books and seminars than from trading. According to traders who had sat through Gann seminars, some came away unconvinced that his methods had any real basis. Others highlight Gann’s own use of pyramiding—bolstering winning trades to accelerate profits—as a two-edged sword. While it can result in big gains, it increases the danger of massive losses. This could account for Gann’s assertions of extremely high returns, like the frequently mentioned 4000% return in 1933. Nevertheless, critics contend that these figures may be inflated or the result of dangerous options gambles instead of pure expertise.
Another concern is the obscurity of Gann’s work. Back in 1909, Gann stated he would never give away his forecasting technique in full. His books and charts often use obscure terminology, making them difficult to decipher. They can’t apply his concepts in actual trading, and this creates more doubt.
Technical analysis itself has its limitations. Some believe it only works if enough people engage in the same methods. Because Gann’s instruments aren’t commonly used, some question whether they have any significant influence in current markets. Despite these issues, Gann’s ability to attract followers remains a testament to his intriguing trading philosophy.
Counterarguments to these criticisms include the belief that Gann’s insights into market cycles and price levels can offer valuable information to traders. His unique approach may provide profitable trading opportunities for those willing to delve into his methods, suggesting that there is still merit in exploring Gann’s contributions to trading strategies.
- Gann’s methods work best with deep study and practice.
- Numerous traders report they have had success with Gann’s time and price principles.
- Some of Gann’s concepts, such as support and resistance are baked into contemporary trading.
- The absence of unambiguous evidence doesn’t render his concepts worthless. Markets love mavericks.
Your Path to Mastery
To master W.D. Gann’s methods is more than to know his theories. It requires consistent learning, practical application, and a genuine understanding of his instruments. Gann’s trading style is unique in that he combined geometry, ancient mathematics, and even astrology to map out and forecast market swings. His books, from Truth of the Stock Tape to How to Make Profits in Commodities, provide a foundation for those desiring to dive deep into his concepts. By reading his newsletters, people get to see how he thought and worked in real time. Even today, numerous traders rely on Gann angles and master charts to monitor price and time, illustrating that his instruments are anything but obsolete. These tools assist users identify trends and changes, earning them a staple for both novice and experienced traders.
Gann’s legacy remains controversial. Others claim he profited more off course sales than trading. Yet despite that, his talent for identifying long-term cycles in markets distinguished him. He thought big trends run in cycles — shaped by both math patterns and planetary cycles. For instance, he employed planetary shifts and aspects to demarcate potential market turning points, a technique which continues to fascinate and be researched globally.
If you want to study Gann’s methods, begin by reading his primary works. Then switch to his charts and angles for some hands-on work. Attempt to backtest market moves with his instruments and discover how cycles unfold in actual information. This creates expertise and confidence in the process.
Helpful ways to learn and practice Gann’s strategies include:
- ‘Tunnel Thru the Air’ and ‘45 Years in Wall Street’ by W.D. Gann
- Online courses from groups focused on Gann studies
- Practice charting tools that include Gann angles and grids
- Forums where traders swap tips and real-life stories
- Charting software with built-in Gann indicators
Dedication is important. Gann’s method is general and occasionally difficult, but consistent work rewards. Be receptive to fresh information, experiment regularly, and connect with peers for encouragement. Gann’s work continues to influence how we view and trade markets, offering a fertile road for anyone willing to follow.
Conclusion
W.D. Gann’s concepts are controversial. His instruments continue to attract individuals seeking to interpret the markets differently. Gann’s charts and number work demonstrate how old-school thinking can mix with new tools. Some find it relevant, some are disappointed, but facts differentiate his work. Traders experiment with Gann’s tools to identify cycles or project price targets. Not everyone achieves the same success, but the core principles remain powerful. To get more out of these tools, check real trades, keep records, and test what works for you. Open your mind, learn from real information, and keep your risk under control. To explore further, experiment in increments and exchange your results with other seekers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was W.D. Gann?
W.D. Gann was a legendary early 20th-century trader who utilized unique trading methods, including geometry and astrology, to forecast market cycles and provide insights into financial success.
What are W.D. Gann’s main trading secrets?
Gann’s core secrets involve using angles and time cycles as part of his unique trading methods to forecast price direction, believing that market action behaves like the laws of nature.
Are Gann’s methods backed by science?
While there is much scholarly debate regarding the scientific validity of Gann’s trading methods, some investors find his patterns useful for making investment decisions, while others regard them as unproven statistically.
Can beginners use Gann’s techniques?
Newbies can learn Gann’s unique trading methods, but it takes time and practice to really master them. Begin with the basics and experiment with ideas before using them in your trading journey.
How relevant are Gann’s methods today?
Some traders continue to use Gann’s concepts, particularly for chart work, blending unique trading methods with modern forecasting methods to enhance their trading philosophy.
What are the common criticisms of Gann’s work?
Detractors argue that Gann’s trading philosophy is overly complicated and unproven, raising concerns about its reliability in forecasting method results.
How do I start learning about Gann’s theories?
Begin with Gann’s books and his fundamental concepts such as Gann angles and time cycles, which provide vital insights for traders and their investment decisions.