Understanding Timeframes

Pick the right candle size for your lifestyle — and commit to it.

Before you draw a single line, you need to understand timeframes — because the timeframe you choose shapes your entire trading experience.

What Is a Timeframe?

Every candle on a chart represents a specific period of time. On a 5-minute chart, each candle shows 5 minutes of price movement. On a daily chart, each candle shows one full day of price movement.

Common Timeframes and What They're Used For

Timeframe	Candle =	Typical Trade Duration	Trader Type
1-minute	1 minute	Minutes	Scalper
5-minute	5 minutes	Minutes to 1-2 hours	Day Trader
15-minute	15 minutes	Hours	Day Trader
1-hour	1 hour	Hours to 1-2 days	Day/Swing Trader
4-hour	4 hours	Days to 1-2 weeks	Swing Trader
Daily	1 day	Weeks to months	Swing/Position Trader
Weekly	1 week	Months	Position Trader
Monthly	1 month	Years	Long-term Investor

Which Timeframe Is Right for You?

There's no universally correct answer — it depends on your lifestyle:

If you can watch charts all day: 5-minute or 15-minute timeframes
If you have a day job: 4-hour or daily timeframes
If you want low stress, longer holds: Daily or weekly timeframes

The critical rule: Pick one timeframe and commit to it. Do not jump between timeframes looking for faster entries once you're in a trade. Decide your trading timeframe, and execute your trades there.

Next module: How to Draw Trendlines the RIGHT Way →

Disclaimer: TrendlineFinder is an educational research and charting tool, not a financial advisor. Content is for educational purposes only and is not investment advice. Trading involves risk. © 2026 Wicked RC LLC. · Terms · Privacy · Financial Disclaimer