Doji

Anatomy

A doji has open and close almost identical, leaving a very thin or non-existent body with wicks on one or both sides. The classic doji has wicks of similar length above and below, forming a cross.

Market psychology

Buyers and sellers fought to a standstill — neither side could close the candle in their favor. It marks a pause in conviction, which matters most when it interrupts a strong move.

When it matters

A doji alone is meaningless; in a flat range you will see dozens. It becomes a signal only after a strong trend and at a key level, where it warns that momentum is stalling. Always confirm with the next candle.

Common beginner mistakes

• Treating every doji as a reversal — most are just low-conviction pauses inside ongoing trends.
• Ignoring location; a doji at a tested support or resistance is far more useful than one mid-range.

Frequently asked questions

Does a doji mean the trend will reverse?

Not by itself. A doji means indecision. After a strong trend at a key level it can warn of a reversal, but you confirm with the direction of the next candle before acting.

What are the main types of doji?

The standard doji (cross), the dragonfly (long lower wick, no upper), the gravestone (long upper wick, no lower), and the long-legged doji (long wicks both sides). Each shifts the read slightly.