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Three Gaps Up

Three Gaps Up / Three Rising Windows

AdvancedCandlestick PatternsBearish (Down)Reliability 70%

Pattern Formation

10 / 10 candles
1,3181,2271,1371,04795786701/0101/0201/0301/0401/0501/0601/0701/0801/0901/10
Speed

Statistics

Target Hit Rate
70%
Average Move
16%
Failure Rate
10%
Avg Formation Days
5 days
Volume Confirmation Boost
+20%

Reference values based on Bulkowski's "Encyclopedia of Chart Patterns". Data is primarily from U.S. markets and may differ for other markets.

A pattern featuring three consecutive upward gaps during an uptrend. One of the traditional Sakata methods, it indicates that buying enthusiasm has reached an extreme, signaling a potential top reversal. When a bearish candle appears after the third gap, the probability of a selling reversal increases.

Formation Conditions

  • A clear uptrend must precede the pattern
  • Three consecutive upward gaps must occur
  • Each gap must have the next candle's open above the previous candle's high
  • Each gapping candle should be bullish (upward body)
  • A reversal sign (bearish candle or doji) must appear after the third gap
  • A volume surge near the third gap is desirable

Entry Condition

Enter short when a bearish candle confirms after the third gap. For a more cautious approach, enter when price drops below the reversal candle's low. Higher volume on the reversal candle increases reliability.

Target Calculation

First target: project the combined range of the three gaps downward from the reversal candle's close. Second target: the lower edge of the first gap. The level where the first gap is filled is also a strong target from a gap-filling perspective.

Stop Loss Rule

Place a stop-loss slightly above the high of the candle that formed the third gap. If the upper edge of the third gap is clearly exceeded, the pattern is invalid; exit.

Volume Profile

Volume typically increases progressively across the three gaps, especially surging at the third gap. This represents a buying climax. High volume on the reversal bearish candle enhances the selling reversal's reliability.

False Signal Detection

  • Gaps driven by strong catalysts (earnings, policy changes) may not reverse as expected
  • A very small third gap may indicate remaining upside potential
  • If the reversal candle is small (spinning top level), wait for another confirmation candle
  • Gaps without volume have low reliability and may be due to low liquidity
  • Early in a long-term uptrend, it often ends as a temporary correction

Related Indicators

VolumeRSIMoving averagesStochastics

Related Patterns

Bullish EngulfingBearish EngulfingDojiThree White Soldiers

Learn More

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