Top-Down Read

A top-down read keeps each timeframe in a specific role. Start with the HTF to understand the broader state and context. Move to the TTF to decide whether there is a tradeable structure, a thesis, and a mechanical wrong point. Only then use the LTF to refine entry timing if smaller-scale information is useful.

The order matters. Starting on the lowest timeframe makes it easy to find attractive-looking movement without knowing what larger structure it belongs to. Moving upward afterward often becomes an exercise in finding reasons to justify a trade you already want.

Top-down reading is meant to prevent that reversal of logic. Context first. Structure second. Timing last. If the TTF does not provide a clear trade, the LTF is not supposed to create one. The process narrows the question at each step instead of adding more charts for the sake of more information.