ADX (Trend Strength)
Measure trend strength with Average Directional Index
ADX (Trend Strength)
Average Directional Index (ADX) quantifies the strength of a trend. It is non-directional - a strong downtrend and strong uptrend both have high ADX.
How it Works
- ADX < 20: The market is "dead" or ranging sideways. Perfect for Grids.
- ADX > 30: A strong trend is established. Danger for Grids.
Formula
The standard Wilder's ADX calculation is used over 14 periods.
Score Logic:
ADX < 20 → +3 Score (Safe Zone)
ADX 20-30 → 0 Score (Neutral)
ADX > 30 → -4 Score (Danger Zone)Recommended Settings
- Period:
14
Q&A
Q: My ADX is 45 but the market is falling. Why is it Danger?
A: A falling market is a Trend. Grids buy as price falls. If the trend is strong (ADX 45), price will keep falling without pulling back, blowing the account.
Q: Can I optimize this?
A: For scalping, keep the threshold at 30. For long-term swing trading, you might raise it to 40.