I see a lot of traders following classical chart patterns . Being a pattern follower myself for some years , here is my advice to them as I feel some pointers will improve their accuracy . Again , this is not the only correct way but what I have learnt from my experiences

1. Volume confirmation is a must. Without the volume rules being fulfilled , there is no importance to the pattern

2. Understand where the pattern is taking place within the major price structure of the index/stock. An inverse head and shoulders bottom reversal occurs at market bottoms , not at market tops

3. If a pattern is valid, it will leap out at you from the computer screen . If it takes a lot of time for you to "see" the pattern , you are probably imagining things

4. Understand how the market players operate so that a pattern is created . Understand the psychological basis of market participants within the pattern . Best resource : Technical Analysis of Stock Trends by Edwards and Magee . You should read the book at least 10 times or more