For example, if the profit target is 1000 points above the entry, as in the chart below, then ideally, the difference between the entry stop-loss (risk) is 500 points or less. Ideally, the potential reward is twice as much as the risk. After establishing the entry, stop-loss and target, consider the profit potential that the trade offers. Consider the risk/reward ratio before proceeding.

If the price action moves favourably, the stop loss is trailed behind the price to help lock in profit.

A trailing stop-loss could also be used.

An estimated profit target may be the height of the wedge at its thickest part, added to the breakout/entry point.

Set a profit target or choose how you will exit a profitable position.

Risk-management is an important element of trading. Others may place the stop loss closer to keep the stop-loss size smaller. Some traders opt to place their stop-loss just outside the opposite side of the wedge from the breakout. This can provide another entry opportunity. Once the price has broken out, it will sometimes come back to retest the old trendline of the wedge. You could open a buy position if the price passes above the upper trendline of a descending wedge, or a sell position when the price falls below the lower trendline of an ascending wedge.

Check the trendlines to make sure that you have drawn them to your liking (typically, they are drawn along, and connecting, swing highs and lows). Verify that the price has moved outside the wedge. This means the price moves outside the drawn wedge pattern. Draw trendlines along the swing highs and the swing lows to highlight the pattern.

Descending wedge breakout