Mastering Candlestick Patterns for Trading Success
Intro
Candlestick charts have become a cornerstone in the world of trading, especially within the cryptocurrency market. They represent a compelling visual tool that traders use to gauge market sentiment and forecast price movements. Understanding these charts might feel daunting at first, but breaking them down into their core components reveals their intrinsic value. This guide will venture into the nitty-gritty of candlestick formations, helping you make sense of their signals and incorporate them into your trading strategy, whether youâre a rookie or someone with a bit more experience under their belt.
Key Concepts in Cryptocurrency
To navigate the labyrinth of candlesticks effectively, understanding the broader landscape of cryptocurrency is vital. Without this grounding, it can be easy to misinterpret the signals your charts are showing.
Understanding Blockchain Technology
At its core, cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum are built on blockchain technology. This decentralized ledger system records all transactions across a network. The security and reliability of these transactions stem from the blockchain's distributed nature, allowing for transparency and trust without relying on centralized institutions.
Key aspects of blockchain include:
- Decentralization: Control is distributed among all network participants.
- Immutability: Once a transaction is recorded, it cannot be altered.
- Transparency: All transactions are visible to anyone with access.
Grasping these principles helps in understanding market trends and behaviors, ultimately enhancing your candlestick interpretation.
Key Terminologies Every Investor Should Know
Before diving deeper into candlestick patterns, itâs crucial to familiarize yourself with various terminologies in the field. Here are some vital words that you'll encounter:
- Bull Market: A market condition where prices are rising or expected to rise.
- Bear Market: The opposite of a bull market, where prices are falling.
- Volatility: The degree of variation in trading prices, which is often pronounced in the cryptocurrency arena.
- Resistance Level: The price point at which selling occurs, preventing the price from rising further.
- Support Level: The price level at which buying interest is strong enough to prevent further decline.
Market Analysis and Trends
With a solid foundation in the above concepts, we can now explore how candlestick charts tie into market analysis and trends.
Current Market Conditions and Predictions
The cryptocurrency market is notoriously fickle, influenced by a multitude of factors ranging from regulatory news to technological advancements. Keeping abreast of current market conditions is essential if you want to make informed trading decisions.
- Price Trends: Analyze whether a cryptocurrency is in a bullish or bearish trend before acting on candlestick patterns.
- Market Sentiment: News, social media chatter, and investor emotions can dramatically alter prices.
Predicting the future might seem like a shot in the dark, but with the right tools, you can gain insights into possible market directions.
Impact of Global Events on Cryptocurrency Prices
Global events have a tendency to stir the pot in the markets. A tweet from a prominent figure, regulatory announcements, or geopolitical shifts can sway prices significantly. Understanding this linkage can elevate your candlestick reading skills, providing context to price movements. For example, if you observe a sudden bullish engulfing pattern after a major regulatory shift, it might signal a strong buying momentum.
"In trading, context is king; understanding the backdrop of price action enriches your analysis of candlestick formations."
By now, you should appreciate that candlestick patterns are not standalone entities; they exist within a larger tapestry of market dynamics and investor behavior. As we peel back more layers in subsequent sections, remember that knowledge is your most potent ally in the world of cryptocurrency trading.
Preface to Candlestick Charts
In the fast-paced world of trading, understanding how to read price movements can make all the difference between profit and loss. Candlestick charts have emerged as a vital tool for traders aiming to decode market behavior. They provide a visual representation of price action over a specified period, enabling both novice and experienced traders to gain insights into market dynamics.
Defining Candlestick Charts
A candlestick chart is a graphical representation of price movements that displays the high, low, opening, and closing prices within a given timeframe. Each candlestick encapsulates a defined period, which can range from one minute to months. The body of the candlestick illustrates the range between the opening and closing prices, while the wicks, or shadows, indicate the highest and lowest prices during that same timeframe.
This charting style, characterized by its colorful candles, offers traders a succinct visual summary of price action and momentum. Understanding this format is foundational for analyzing market trends effectively.
Historical Context
The origins of candlestick charts can be traced back to 18th century Japan, where rice traders first utilized this method to track price fluctuations. Munehisa Homma, a well-known rice trader, pioneered these techniques, finding that the psychology of market participants plays a crucial role in price movements. This historical backdrop underlines the concept that traders' emotionsâgreed and fearâare often reflected in the patterns that candlesticks form.
Why Candlesticks Matter in Trading
Candlestick patterns are not just decorative images; they are repositories of invaluable information. By interpreting these patterns correctly, traders can make educated guesses about future price movements.
Some of the benefits of using candlestick charts include:
- Visual Clarity: Candlestick charts provide a comprehensive view of price action, making trends and reversals easier to spot.
- Emotional Insights: The shapes and colors of candlesticks can signal traders' emotions and market sentiment.
- Pattern Recognition: Specific formations can indicate bullish or bearish trends, helping traders identify potential entry and exit points.
"Understanding candlestick patterns can be the difference between hitting the jackpot and losing your shirt."
In summary, the ability to decode these charts can significantly enhance tradersâ strategies, enabling more informed decisions based on clear visual data about price movements.
Components of a Candlestick
When delving into the world of candlestick charts, itâs essential to understand that each candlestick is a window into market psychology and price action. A candlestick reveals not just the price movements during a specific time frame but also the emotional state of traders. Grasping the components of a candlestick informs traders of market strength and potential reversals.
Open, High, Low, and Close
Every candlestick consists of four significant points: Open, High, Low, and Close, often abbreviated as OHLC. These terms might sound basic, but their understanding is foundational in reading candlesticks effectively.
- Open: This is the price at which the asset starts trading during the time period in question.
- High: This indicates the maximum price reached during that time frame.
- Low: Conversely, this shows the minimum price attained.
- Close: This is the price of the asset at the end of the period.
Each of these points provides valuable insights. For instance, if the close price is higher than the open price, this typically suggests bullish sentiment. If it's the other way around, it hints at bearish pressure. Knowing how these prices relate to each other forms the bedrock of candlestick analysis.
Body and Wick Explained
The body and wicks (or shadows) of a candlestick carry tons of information about price movements. The body of the candlestick represents the range between the open and close prices. A longer body indicates strong buying or selling pressure, while a shorter body may imply indecision in the market.
The wick or shadow indicates the price extremes that occurred during the period. The upper wick shows how high the price reached above the body, while the lower wick indicates how low the price fell.
- Upper Wick: The length of this wick can signal the rejection of higher prices. A long upper wick suggests that buyers pushed the price up, but sellers stepped in, driving it down before the period closed.
- Lower Wick: A long lower wick hints that sellers pushed the price down, but buyers fought back and pushed it higher before the end.
This interplay indicates market sentiment effectively. Understanding the body and wick can guide traders in making informed decisions about potential market moves.
Color Significance
The color of a candlestick isnât just for aesthetics; it conveys critical information about market sentiment. Traditionally, a green (or white) candlestick suggests that prices closed higher than the opening price, signifying a bullish trend. On the other hand, a red (or black) candlestick indicates the price closed lower than it opened, portraying bearish sentiment.
Yet, color extends beyond simple bullish and bearish indicators.
- Green Candlestick: Confidence in buying, often seen in rising markets.
- Red Candlestick: Indecision or selling pressure, typically present in declining markets.
- Diversity in Color: Sometimes, traders can utilize differing shades to signify various strengths of price movements or to mark specific trading strategies.
"Every candlestick tells a story; it's up to the trader to read it right."
For those keen on a deeper exploration, you might want to check out resources such as Wikipedia or Investopedia. This knowledge can help frame your trading decisions like a seasoned professional.
Common Candlestick Patterns
Understanding common candlestick patterns is fundamental for anyone looking to make informed trading decisions. These patterns provide critical insight into market movements and trader sentiment. By recognizing specific formations, traders can better predict price movements and identify potential buy or sell scenarios. Furthermore, these patterns can serve as guideposts, helping traders navigate the sometimes murky waters of market analysis. Each pattern carries its own characteristics and implications, which is vital for effective trading strategies.
Bullish Patterns
Doji
The Doji is characterized by its open and close prices being virtually the same, which forms a cross-like shape. This formation is significant because it signifies indecision in the market. When traders see a Doji after a price decline, it might hint at a reversal since the buyers may be stepping up to challenge the selling pressure. This makes it a popular choice in this article, demonstrating how market sentiment can shift.
A unique feature of the Doji is its ability to provide insights regardless of the trend. While it often signals a change in direction, its effectiveness improves when combined with other indicators. However, one should be cautious. The Doji can also result in false signals, particularly in a volatile market.
Hammer
The Hammer candlestick appears much like a hammer, reflecting a price decline followed by a rally back, creating a small body at the top and a long lower shadow. This pattern typically pops up at the end of a downtrend, signaling a potential bullish reversal. Its distinct shape, with the long wick, illustrates how buyers have started stepping in after the initial selling pressure.
The Hammer is effective because it offers traders a clear cue: if it appears at the right time, it is often a strong indicator that buyers are regaining control. Still, it doesnât work in isolation. Context matters, and a Hammer surrounded by other bullish confirmations, like a strong resistance break, enhances its reliability.
Engulfing
The Engulfing pattern consists of two candlesticks, where the second candle completely engulfs the first. When this occurs during a downtrend, itâs known as a Bullish Engulfing pattern. Traders view this as a positive sign because it indicates a strong shift in momentum. This is why itâs a favored choice for illustrating how swift market changes can happen.
The key characteristic of the Engulfing pattern is its ability to highlight strength in buying pressure. An engulfing candle showing a larger body compared to its predecessor demonstrates forceful participation from buyers. Nevertheless, like the others, it is not infallible. Itâs vital to look at volume alongside engulfing patterns for better validation.
Bearish Patterns
Shooting Star
The Shooting Star is a candlestick that appears after a price increase, featuring a small body at the bottom and a long upper wick. This pattern indicates that buyers initially pushed the price up but then sellers stepped in, causing a retreat. It's crucial for traders to recognize the Shooting Star as it can signal a potential reversal from bullish to bearish.
The visual aspect of the Shooting Star makes it quite identifiable and alerts traders to a possible shift in market sentiment. However, it carries risks. If traders act impulsively upon seeing a Shooting Star without confirming other bearish signals, they could misjudge the market.
Dark Cloud Cover
Dark Cloud Cover forms when a bullish candle is followed by a bearish candle that opens above the previous candle's close but then closes below its midpoint. This suggests a strong seller presence after a rally, making it a notable pattern in bearish analysis. Investors looking for early signs of market stabilization often pay close attention to this formation.
The strength of the Dark Cloud Cover lies in its ability to show concern among buyers that previously dominated the market. It signals to traders that sellers have begun to take control. However, context is essential. Dark Cloud Cover should ideally appear after a prolonged bullish run for a reliable interpretation.
Evening Star
The Evening Star is a three-candle pattern that signals a potential bullish-to-bearish reversal. It typically consists of a long bullish candle, followed by a small-bodied candle, and concludes with a long bearish candle. This formation confirms that buyers are losing momentum.
The Evening Star's characteristic feature is its sequence showcasing rejection at higher prices; thus, it is viewed as a strong bearish signal. However, it should be considered alongside volume and market conditions to avoid false signals.
Continuation Patterns
Flags
Flags form after a strong price movement and indicate a pause before the trend continues. They are identified as small rectangles that slope against the prevailing trend and often indicate consolidation before a breakout. Trading with Flags can be beneficial because they signal an opportunity for traders to re-enter a trend after short corrections.
The Flagâs unique appearance, where the flagpole represents the sharp price movement before consolidation, is a strong visual cue for traders. Still, itâs crucial to monitor volume and market conditions, as low volume can result in weak breakouts.
Pennants
Pennants are very similar to Flags but are characterized by converging trendlines, creating a triangular shape. They often follow a rapid price movement, indicating that traders are taking a short breather before the trend continues. The clean and concise appearance makes them easier to identify.
Like Flags, the advantage of trading Pennants lies in their ability to legitimize trend continuation with proper confirmation. However, as with any pattern, traders must remain cautious and ensure they have the necessary context to avoid false breakouts.
Recognizing common candlestick patterns and applying them within broader market conditions can significantly enhance your trading strategies. Whether youâre looking to capitalize on bullish reversals or confirm bearish trends, understanding these patterns is key to navigating the trading world effectively.
Candlestick Analysis Techniques
Candlestick analysis serves as the backbone of trading methods, particularly in dynamic markets like cryptocurrencies. Having a grasp of this framework is crucial for anyone who aims to make informed trading decisions. By understanding how candlestick patterns interact with various elements such as trends, volume, and time frames, traders can build a robust strategy to navigate the market's ebbs and flows.
Trend Analysis
Recognizing market trends is fundamental to any successful trading strategy. Trends can be categorized broadly into three types: uptrends, downtrends, and sideways movements. Candlestick patterns play a pivotal role in identifying these trends. For instance, a series of ascending candlesticks can hint at a bullish trend. Conversely, numerous descending candlesticks alert traders of a potential bearish market.
Using candlesticks for trend analysis involves observing the patterns that form over time. Traders look for continuity with certain formationsâlike a bullish engulfing signifying strong upward momentum, or a bearish reversal pattern indicating a potential downturn. Incorporating trend lines alongside candlesticks provides a clearer picture, helping to delineate support and resistance levels effectively.
"In trading, trend is your friend until it ends, and candlestick patterns can help you recognize when that end may be near."
Volume Considerations
Volume analysis, when paired with candlestick patterns, becomes a powerful tool in a trader's arsenal. It reveals the strength behind the candlesticks and the price movements they represent. A candlestick that forms on high volume suggests conviction, while the same candle on low volume may hint at uncertainty.
For example, if a bullish pattern like a hammer occurs with significant volume, it suggests that buyers are active and believe in the price change. Alternatively, if a bullish candle appears with low volume after a downtrend, it raises a red flag. This could imply that buyers lack the necessary conviction, making the potential for a quick reversal likely. Therefore, traders must consider volume not merely as an adjunct but as an integral aspect of decision making.
Time Frames Impact
The time frame chosen for trading significantly influences candlestick interpretation. A candlestick on a daily chart has a different weight than one on a five-minute chart. Longer time frames tend to provide more reliable signals as they filter out market noise, whereas shorter time frames might present more volatile movements, often resulting in false signals.
Traders typically analyze multiple time frames to gain a more comprehensive view of market conditions. For instance, a trader might use a daily chart to identify an overarching trend while zooming into a one-hour chart for precise entry points. This layered approach can yield greater accuracy in trading decisions, reducing the risk associated with relying solely on one timeframe.
Comparative Analysis with Other Chart Types
When it comes to trading, understanding various chart types is essential for making informed decisions. Candlestick charts offer a dynamic view of market trends, but they arenât the only tool in a trader's toolbox. Comparative analysis with other chart typesâlike line charts and bar chartsâhelps traders gain a wider perspective on price movements and market behavior.
Line Charts
Line charts are one of the simplest forms of data visualization in trading. They present price information as a continuous line over a time period. The key feature here is that they solely represent closing prices, making them straightforward yet limiting in detail.
- Simplicity: Line charts are easy to understand and ideal for beginners. Investors can quickly gauge the general direction of price movement over time.
- Limited Information: They lack data on opening, high, and low prices during the trading period. For traders seeking to catch volatile movements, missing this data can lead to missed opportunities or poor decisions.
If youâre analyzing long-term trends and need a high-level overview, line charts can serve as a useful starting point. But as you delve deeper into market patterns, you may find them wanting in complexity.
Bar Charts
Bar charts introduce more depth than line charts by showcasing the high, low, open, and close of prices within a defined timeframe. Each bar represents a time interval, often aligned with daily or weekly trading periods, offering a quick snapshot of price action.
- Comprehensive Data: Each bar captures valuable information about market sentiment. Traders can observe price fluctuations within the bar and make more nuanced decisions.
- Clutter: The increased information can lead to visual clutter, especially if there are multiple bars on the screen. This might overwhelm new traders who are still learning to interpret price movements.
For those looking to analyze specific intraday movements, bar charts may serve you well. However, they still canât match the richness of information found in candlestick charts, such as reversal indicators and bullish or bearish signals that pave the way for informed trading strategies.
Advantages of Candlestick Charts
While both line and bar charts have their strengths, candlestick charts shine for several reasons:
- Visual Appeal and Clarity: Candlestick charts use distinct colors and shapes, aiding quicker comprehension of market sentiment. The body and wicks tell a vivid story about price action, allowing traders to make split-second decisions.
- Pattern Recognition: Traders can identify invaluable candlestick patternsâlike hammers and engulfing candlesâthat signal potential market turns. These patterns provide insights that line and bar charts may overlook.
- Combining Information: Unlike line and bar charts, candlesticks integrate all essential data points (open, high, low, close) in one cohesive visual display, making them the go-to choice for in-depth market analysis.
In summary, while comparative analysis of chart types enhances understanding, it becomes clear that candlestick charts possess unmatched capabilities, especially in deciphering market trends and behaviors. They serve not just as a visualization tool but as a crucial part of any trading strategy. Traders looking to elevate their game should embrace candlestick charts alongside other types to ensure a well-rounded approach.
"In trading, context is everything. Understanding different chart types equips you with a comprehensive toolkit."
For further insight on trading charts, check out Wikipedia on Chart Types or explore community discussions on Redditâs Trading.
Practical Applications in Cryptocurrency Trading
In the volatile world of cryptocurrency, knowing when to jump in and out of trades can often mean the difference between profit and loss. Candlestick charts serve as a crucial tool for traders, offering insights that can illuminate potential price movements. This section will untangle the practical applications of candlesticks, specifically focusing on how they can guide entry and exit points, inform risk management strategies, and provide real-world case studies that reveal their efficacy in action.
Using Candlesticks for Entry and Exit Points
When deciding the best moment to enter or exit a trade, candlestick patterns can act as a beacon. Traders often look for specific formations that suggest bullish or bearish conditions. For instance, an Engulfing pattern is particularly noteworthy for entry points; when it appears after a downtrend, it may signal a reversal and prompt traders to consider buying. Conversely, spotting a Shooting Star after an uptrend might indicate a good opportunity to sell.
These signals don't work in isolation. They benefit from context; comparing the candlestick patterns with other indicators like moving averages or RSI can provide a more rounded view. Also, time frames play a critical role in the approach. A pattern that appears on a 1-hour chart may not hold the same significance as one that shows up on a daily chart.
- Engulfing Pattern: Indicates possible reversal.
- Shooting Star: Signals potential sell opportunity.
This kind of analysis helps traders make informed decisions rather than relying on gut feelings or sheer luck.
Risk Management Strategies
When it comes to trading, managing risk is the name of the game, especially in fast-changing crypto markets. Candlestick analysis can assist in defining risk management strategies. Traders can use the high and low points of a candlestick to set stop-loss orders.
For example, if a trader buys a cryptocurrency after recognizing a strong bullish pattern, placing a stop-loss just below the recent low can help limit their downside risk. This ensures that even if the trade goes south, losses are restricted.
Additionally, understanding the implications of a âDojiâ candlestick can help traders rethink their strategies. A doji appears when the opening and closing prices are nearly identical, often signaling indecision in the market. This can prompt a trader to tighten their stops or even exit positions until the trend becomes clearer.
Case Studies
Looking at real-world examples can provide clarity on how candlestick patterns influence trading decisions.
- Bitcoinâs Bull Run of 2020: During this time, several bullish candlestick patterns emerged, enabling traders to identify optimal entry points. As prices rallied, the appearance of multiple Bullish Engulfing patterns led many to enter trades at lower levels, which then allowed them to maximize profits as Bitcoin surged.
- Ethereumâs Dump in 2021: A wave of selling pressure resulted in the appearance of a Dark Cloud Cover pattern. For those who were attentive, this was a red flag signaling to exit trades or even short. Understanding these patterns could save traders from steep losses.
These case studies not only illustrate how candlesticks function in real scenarios but also stress the importance of staying alert and adaptable as market conditions fluctuate.
By applying candlesticks effectively, traders enhance their decision-making process and establish a structured approach to navigating the complexities of cryptocurrency trading.
Limitations of Candlestick Analysis
Understanding the limitations of candlestick analysis is crucial for traders aiming to navigate the complexities of the market. While candlestick patterns provide valuable insights, they are not foolproof, and relying solely on them can lead to misunderstandings of market movements.
Market Noise
Market noise refers to the erratic price fluctuations that can obscure the true direction of the market. These fluctuations arise from various factors such as investor sentiment, economic news, and short-lived trading behavior. In the context of candlestick analysis, this noise can create misleading signals. For instance, a lone bullish candlestick may appear to indicate that prices are rising, but if it's surrounded by volatile price action, traders may be set up for disappointment.
Traders should be wary of recognizing that not every pattern or candle formation indicates a clear market trend. Itâs important to consider the broader context, such as trading volume and economic conditions, to filter out the noise. A good approach is to use multiple time frames to validate a signal. For example:
- A bullish candlestick on a 15-minute chart might not hold if the daily or weekly charts are showing bearish sentiment.
- Unexpected news can also distort candlestick signals, making it vital to stay updated and agile.
Over-Reliance on Patterns
Relying too heavily on candlestick patterns can lead traders down a rabbit hole. While these patterns offer historical insights, they can fail to predict future movements accurately. For example, if a trader sees a classic 'hammer' pattern, they may assume a price reversal is imminent. However, the broader market conditions could render this pattern irrelevant.
Experiencing a false signal can be frustrating and costly. Traders often find themselves chasing after trends that do not materialize, leading to potential losses. Remember, patterns are just one piece of the puzzle. To mitigate this risk, it is advisable to:
- Stay skeptical of patterns alone. Always ask, âWhat else is happening in the market?â
- Incorporate fundamental analysis. Understanding the underlying assets and their market conditions is as vital as recognizing technical signals.
Integrating with Other Tools
To enhance the effectiveness of candlestick analysis, integrating it with other analytical tools is key. Using indicators such as moving averages, RSI, and MACD can help traders confirm signals generated by candlestick patterns. These tools can provide greater clarity and reduce the potential for error.
For instance, if a candlestick pattern emerges alongside high volume and a bullish moving average crossover, the signal becomes more robust. Similarly, combining candlestick charting with support and resistance levels can greatly improve prediction accuracy.
Here are some ways to blend candlestick analysis with other tools:
- Trendlines: Drawing trendlines can help traders determine the overall market direction alongside candlestick patterns.
- Oscillators: Tools like RSI can indicate overbought or oversold conditions, complementing what is seen on a candlestick chart.
- Volume Analysis: Assessing volume helps understand the strength of a candlestick signal. High volume often adds credibility to a price move.
Integrating candlestick analysis with other methods fosters a more rounded trading strategy, allowing traders to make better-informed decisions.
Closure and Next Steps
The journey through candlestick charts comes to an end, but it's just the beginning for your trading endeavors. Understanding candlesticks is not merely about recognizing patterns; it involves grasping the market's pulse and anticipating its moves. In trading, knowledge is power, and candlestick charts give you insights that can lead to sound decision-making. Being aware of these insights helps traders minimize risks while maximizing potential gains.
To leverage your understanding of candlesticks, consider these critical elements:
- Embed Learnings into Practice: Experiment with candlestick analysis on demo accounts. By doing so, you can practice entry and exit strategies without putting your capital at risk. This hands-on experience is invaluable.
- Continuous Learning: Markets evolve, and so should your knowledge. Following relevant forums, webinars, or courses keeps you in tune with new strategies and tools.
- Community Engagement: Engaging with communities, like those found on Reddit or even social media platforms such as Facebook, can enrich your trading perspective. The shared insights often reveal whatâs working or not for others.
In summary, integrating candlestick analysis into your trading toolkit enhances your ability to make informed decisions. Now itâs about putting knowledge into action and refining your skills.
Summary of Key Takeaways
- Candlestick charts provide a visual representation of price movements, helping traders interpret market dynamics effectively.
- Awareness of different patterns, like bullish or bearish formations, enriches trading strategies.
- Practicing these strategies on demo accounts allows traders to build confidence before dealing with real capital.
Resources for Further Learning
For those eager to deepen their understanding of candlestick charts and trading strategies, several resources are available:
- Investopedia offers comprehensive coverage on candlestick patterns and how to utilize them.
- Babypips presents valuable insights into the art of trading with practical examples.
- TradingView not only provides charting tools but also a community to engage with fellow traders.
- Academic sources like National Bureau of Economic Research might provide deeper theoretical perspectives.
Final Thoughts
Embarking on the candlestick analysis journey can feel overwhelming at first. However, as with any skill, practice makes it more intuitive. Keeping a journal to document your trades and the corresponding candlestick formations serves as an excellent reference. Each trading experience, especially the missteps, can offer lessons that sharpen your acumen.
While candlestick charts do not predict the future with certainty, they are tools that can elevate your trading strategy. The key here isnât just to memorize patterns but to develop an understanding of market psychology reflected in those candlesticks. As you advance, always remember to balance your instinct with analytical skills. Your trading adventure is unique, and adapting various elements to suit your style is what will set you apart.
