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The indicators and line studies found in MetaStock can be divided into six categories. The intent of this guide is to help you develop better trading systems. A robust technical trading system should probably incorporate indicators from several of these categories. Note that some indicators fall into more than one category.

The following indicators and line studies can be used to measure cycles. Many securities, particularly futures, show a tendency to move in cyclical patterns. Price changes can often be anticipated at key cyclical intervals.
 

The following indicators can be used to measure market strength. Each of these indicators incorporate either volume or open interest, which are the basic ingredients to the measurement of market strength. Generally higher volume and/or open interest levels indicate more participants and therefore more strength.

The following indicators can be used to measure momentum. Momentum is a general term used to describe the speed at which prices move over a given time period. Generally, changes in momentum tend to lead changes in prices.

The following indicators and line studies can be used to measure support and resistance. A common occurrence is for prices to repeatedly rise or fall to a certain level and then reverse. This phenomenon (attributed to basic supply and demand) is called support and resistance.

The following indicators and line studies can be used to measure trend. Trend is a term used to describe the persistence of prices to move in one direction.

The following indicators can be used to measure volatility. Volatility is a general term used to describe the magnitude of day-to-day fluctuations in prices (independent of direction). Generally, changes in volatility tend to lead changes in prices.