Technical Analysis for Dummies

  Author:    Barbara Rockefeller, Barbara Rockefeller
  ISBN:    0764540440
  Sales Rank:    3547
  Published:    2004-02-23
  Publisher:    For Dummies
  # Pages:    360
  Binding:    Paperback
  Avg. Rating:    4.0 based on 26 reviews
  Used Offers:    19 from $11.95
  Amazon Price:    $16.49
  (Data above last updated:  2008-10-09 04:58:50 EST)
  
  
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Technical Analysis for Dummies
  
A simple, straightforward guide to the fundamentals of technical analysis
For active traders and investors who don't understand the complicated art of technical analysis, this commonsense resource covers all the bases. Explaining the basic principles of analysis and showing how to implement them, Technical Analysis For Dummies dumps the confusing jargon and unreadable charts for basic explanations and practical guidance. In no time at all, readers will see how to make better trading decisions.
Barbara Rockefeller (Stamford, CT) is one of the foremost authorities on technical analysis and founder of Rockefeller Treasury Services.
                  Reader Reviews 1 - 28 of 28                 
  
  
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08-16-08 5 1\1
(Hide Review...)  It will pay for itself
Reviewer Permalink
At no other time have I ever bought a book that paid for itself. Having utilized the techniques discussed in Technical Analysis for Dummies, I actually earned well over the $20.00 needed to pay for the book. This is a great book for beginners because it discusses MACD and Stochastics, as well as combining criteria in order to create stock screeners. I have also read Mutual Funds for Dummies and Stock Investing for Dummies. This one is the best written and by far the most useful so. I highly recommend this book if you are new to the world of stock investing.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-10-08 04:16:05 EST)
07-31-08 2 (NA)
(Hide Review...)  Does not have examples
Reviewer Permalink
I want to be honest for this book. I'm a daily trader and want to learn more about technical analysis. After I read this book I notice that this book does not have any examples to make it understandable for readers. It just has explanations that make it boring to read. In my opinion find a book that has examples about real situation during trading stocks. YOU CAN NOT LEARN ONLY WITH EXPLENATIN. My suggestion is read other technical analysis books reviews to find out which one have both explanations follow by examples. Good luck
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-08-16 03:42:41 EST)
07-18-08 5 (NA)
(Hide Review...)  Best Little Guide To Technical Analysis
Reviewer Permalink
This book is a nice synopsis of technical indicators and is written in common understandable English. There are big tomes written on this subject but this is all you will need to get a good grasp of the subject. It is not a recipe book that will tell you how to make a bundle of money in the stock market, but you are unlikely to make a bundle without mastering the analytic techniques discussed in this book. You will develop your own favorite indicators and combination of indicators to help you invest, but without understanding the basics of the technical analysis, you will be lost. And this book is a good source of learning just that.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-07-31 04:06:00 EST)
07-03-08 4 (NA)
(Hide Review...)  A good addition to the trader's library....
Reviewer Permalink
I found this book to be not too heavy, not too light in dealing with technical analysis. I wanted something that would expand upon the various indicators, etc. a bit more than I would find with a wiki search, and the book hits the target. I'm pleased and I think that others who are looking for something that's more than an "entry-level" book will be pleased as well.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-07-19 00:18:48 EST)
06-18-08 2 (NA)
(Hide Review...)  A mile wide and an inch deep material
Reviewer Permalink
I have read more than a dozen books on forex, some good and some bad. I'm afraid this book is somewhere at the bottom. The author kept babbling about self-proclaimed experts in technical analysis all throughout the book it became pathetic. Discussions on most technical indicators was blurry, not the english, but the material simply was not good enough. Very flimsy in many cases and as a result gives you a feeling the author is far from being an authority on the subject. The only reason I gave a generous 2 stars is the discussion on momentum indicators where there was a little bit of substance. Example charts also were poorly selected. After reading the book I felt I really did not pick up anything new.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-07-07 00:34:03 EST)
06-05-08 4 1\1
(Hide Review...)  Honest Description of TA
Reviewer Permalink
I bought this book secure in the knowledge of what I didn't know, so the choice of a Dummies book was perfect. When I say that the book was honest, I mean that it made no extravagant claims as to what Technical Analysis (TA) could do for me as an investor. Instead, it consistently qualified any statements it made about the predictive nature of TA. If anything, the book erred on the side of caution; statements along the lines of "The trend is your friend--until it isn't." were common. Some might find this to be overly cautious; I found it reassuring. I didn't want a book on TA with the word "Rich" in the title.

I give the book four stars instead of five, because it could be a bit difficult in explaining more obscure points. Rarely, a paragraph which referred to a chart to make a point would be difficult to follow. This might have been avoided with better annotated illustrations. All in all, the book does a good job of defining the key concepts in each chapter. It is profusely illustrated, and doesn't run the risk of information overload.

Lastly, this is a book for beginners. It does give a good idea of the scope of all that is included in TA, but it isn't an exhaustive look at any specific topic. I often found myself wanting to read more on certain subjects. While this is perfect for an introductory book, those who already have a passing acquaintance with the subject matter might best look elsewhere, say Alexander Elder's Trading for a Living: Psychology, Trading Tactics, Money Management.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-07-07 00:34:03 EST)
05-29-08 4 1\1
(Hide Review...)  Overall, a good introductory book on TA
Reviewer Permalink
I'm new to individual stock investing, and wanted a good introductory book on TA. I've found the "Dummies" series of books quite good. This book is no exception.

Before reading this book, I wouldn't know trending, momentum, or volume indicators if they bit me. After reading the book, they're my good friends.

When initially "putting my toe in the water", TA seemed quite daunting. After carefully reading the book while pouring over TA charts on various financial websites, I'm now fairly comfortable with the fundamentals of TA and ready to dive in.

This book gave me the basics and the confidence I need to start. Experience and additional learning will just make me better...

Let's hear it for the 3-way crossover!
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-07-07 00:34:03 EST)
03-08-08 5 (NA)
(Hide Review...)  very good
Reviewer Permalink
This book saved me a $250 worth training, i recommend it for anyone interested in TA. It is staight forward, understandable, a very good deal. Got it in 3 weeks. Worth waiting:-) from Budapest, Hungary
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-03-22 12:37:31 EST)
12-01-07 2 1\1
(Hide Review...)  Typical dummies book
Reviewer Permalink
There was a modest amount of good info embedded in a lot of fluff and useless verbiage which is typical of these dummy books. I found myself having to carefully review and sometimes reread sections to parse out the important bits. I think what I really needed was just a book of pictures of chart patterns with short explanations for each one. Anyway I got enough out of this to get me started but it was more work on my part than it needed to be.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-01-24 01:40:50 EST)
11-30-07 2 2\2
(Hide Review...)  Typical dummies book
Reviewer Permalink
There was a modest amount of good info embedded in a lot of fluff and useless verbiage which is typical of these dummy books. I found myself having to carefully review and sometimes reread sections to parse out the important bits. I think what I really needed was just a book of pictures of chart patterns with short explanations for each one. Anyway I got enough out of this to get me started but it was more work on my part than it needed to be.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-01-25 08:35:39 EST)
08-15-07 2 5\8
(Hide Review...)  There's gotta be better than this
Reviewer Permalink
The author attempts a very difficult subject and falls flat on her face.
Very unclear. Sentences an English professor couldn't diagram. Most any other book on Technical Analysis would be better
(Review Data Last Updated: 2008-07-07 00:34:03 EST)
08-10-07 5 (NA)
(Hide Review...)  Great and easy to read
Reviewer Permalink
My investment friend was surprise when I told him that this book help me a lot. I keep this book by me at all times if I need to go back and review something. You should have this in your library.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2007-08-15 20:28:05 EST)
03-16-07 3 2\3
(Hide Review...)  Good as a reference
Reviewer Permalink
This book is pretty good for a reference, it covers all the basic issues and ideas that one should know when dealing with technical analysis.

My disappointment is that it lacks the prctical section. OK, so I know the basics, I open the chart at any charts system, and now what??
It doesnt give any methods of analysis, it just gives the tools.

Bottom line, as I see it, after reading the book you can't just go and start working...
(Review Data Last Updated: 2007-08-11 07:22:21 EST)
08-19-06 1 3\16
(Hide Review...)  NOT CLEARER THAN BEFORE STUFF
Reviewer Permalink
God help the "dummies" who like to learn from this book. Don't get this book if you are new to technical analysis, which will NOT make you money either. It will just confuse you. I recommend Martin Pring to start out with.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2007-07-10 17:46:34 EST)
07-25-06 5 7\7
(Hide Review...)  THE BEST
Reviewer Permalink
I've checked out lots of books on Technical Analysis and I've found this far and away the best, both for its understandability and its breadth. It's not a simple read, because technical analysis isn't a simple subject. But if you dedicate yourself to understanding it (with more than one reading), it will pay you back every step of the way.

This is definitely the book to start with (and maybe end with too) if you're serious about learning the discipline of technical analysis, rather than just dabbling in it. It's like being taught by a friend who's "in the business."

(Review Data Last Updated: 2007-07-10 17:46:34 EST)
07-24-06 5 1\1
(Hide Review...)  THE BEST
Reviewer Permalink
I've checked out lots of books on Technical Analysis and I've found this far and away the best, both for its understandability and its breadth. It's not a simple read, because technical analysis isn't a simple subject. But if you dedicate yourself to understanding it (with more than one reading), it will pay you back every step of the way.

This is definitely the book to start with (and maybe end with too) if you're serious about learning the discipline of technical analysis, rather than just dabbling in it. It's like being taught by a friend who's "in the business."

(Review Data Last Updated: 2006-08-20 07:05:33 EST)
02-26-06 5 16\17
(Hide Review...)  A bridge from the theoretical to the practical
Reviewer Permalink
This is an excellent book for investors wishing to understand the theory of technical analysis trading, while acquiring tools to translate the theories into one's own trading strategies. The author's explanations are clear, her practical examples thorough and easy to follow, and her disclosures regarding the built-in limitations of any mathematical approach necessary. Ms. Rockefeller's Resources appendix suggest follow-up websites and texts from which to build on her text. I've read more theoretical approaches to this subject, but prefer her balanced text, setting forth the theories, but moving on quickly to practical considerations. The author is very honest about her own limitations but always points readers to the correct resources to resolve lingering questions. I recommend this book to traders of all levels as a resource to which they will enjoy returning.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2007-07-10 17:46:34 EST)
02-25-06 5 6\6
(Hide Review...)  A bridge from the theoretical to the practical
Reviewer Permalink
This is an excellent book for investors wishing to understand the theory of technical analysis trading, while acquiring tools to translate the theories into one's own trading strategies. The author's explanations are clear, her practical examples thorough and easy to follow, and her disclosures regarding the built-in limitations of any mathematical approach necessary. Ms. Rockefeller's Resources appendix suggest follow-up websites and texts from which to build on her text. I've read more theoretical approaches to this subject, but prefer her balanced text, setting forth the theories, but moving on quickly to practical considerations. The author is very honest about her own limitations but always points readers to the correct resources to resolve lingering questions. I recommend this book to traders of all levels as a resource to which they will enjoy returning.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2006-07-25 06:46:05 EST)
11-03-05 1 5\21
(Hide Review...)  Plain English
Reviewer Permalink
I can't say I read this whole book, because, I started to read it and found from a markets perspective I couldn't agree with much of what it said. That probably applies to T/A in general, mind, not just this book. However, it does confirm that this book isn't really managing to sell T/A. There are too many qualifications about indicators and rules which if you take on, rather than ignore, make some of these systems no better than a crack-pot lottery system. Also, having dipped into various chapters there seem to be cases of things only being glossed over, such as candlesticks.

Much cases, of may, might, probable, etc. If you want to get rich quick, first learn how to do the DD and value analysis. Then use T/A if you must to provide some support to your entry and exits into investments, but do not invest on the basis of charts alone. You may win some, and then lose some, and win some, and lose some, and lose some, and over time, unless lucky, you'll probably lose some more than you win some. Of course, there are lucky people. Don't take these people as being statistically representative of whether T/A works or not!

Sorry; the book doesn't do it for me, though I'm quite positive there will be more succint books produced by sharper traders which will act as better guides.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2006-03-10 06:56:01 EST)
11-03-05 1 9\45
(Hide Review...)  Plain English
Reviewer Permalink
I can't say I read this whole book, because, I started to read it and found from a markets perspective I couldn't agree with much of what it said. That probably applies to T/A in general, mind, not just this book. However, it does confirm that this book isn't really managing to sell T/A. There are too many qualifications about indicators and rules which if you take on, rather than ignore, make some of these systems no better than a crack-pot lottery system. Also, having dipped into various chapters there seem to be cases of things only being glossed over, such as candlesticks.

Much cases, of may, might, probable, etc. If you want to get rich quick, first learn how to do the DD and value analysis. Then use T/A if you must to provide some support to your entry and exits into investments, but do not invest on the basis of charts alone. You may win some, and then lose some, and win some, and lose some, and lose some, and over time, unless lucky, you'll probably lose some more than you win some. Of course, there are lucky people. Don't take these people as being statistically representative of whether T/A works or not!

Sorry; the book doesn't do it for me, though I'm quite positive there will be more succint books produced by sharper traders which will act as better guides.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2007-07-10 17:46:34 EST)
10-09-05 5 18\19
(Hide Review...)  Most comprehensive introduction book you can buy
Reviewer Permalink
For an introduction to technical analysis, read this book first. You won't need to read others. It is the most comprehensive, and easy to understand, book on technical analysis that I've read. Surprisingly, it isn't dry, either.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2007-07-10 17:46:34 EST)
09-18-05 5 15\16
(Hide Review...)  THE Book to Start With If You Want to Really Learn Technical Analysis
Reviewer Permalink
Fortunately for me, this was one of the first books that I bought when I began learning technical analysis. This is probably the best book I own which touches on virtually every aspect of the subject. It is clearly written, and you can certainly read it even if you know nothing. Beleive me, we have all been there. And technical analysis can seem overwhelming when you begin.
My copy of this book is worn, is thoroughly underlined, and I have marked the most important pages. I still refer to it. If you want to get your money's worth, believe me, you should buy this book!
(Review Data Last Updated: 2006-07-07 07:52:05 EST)
05-05-05 5 10\14
(Hide Review...)  For a beginner or experienced trader
Reviewer Permalink
For a beginner or experienced treader,you can learn from this book.Don't under estimate this book it has great advice to add to your knowledge base.Its to the point.If you don't understand it the first time read it again.This is the first book you need to read.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2006-07-07 07:52:05 EST)
04-18-05 5 17\18
(Hide Review...)  Comprehensive Yet Concise
Reviewer Permalink
Ms Rockefeller has accomplished a difficult task. Take a broad topic and cover it in a comprehensive and concise manner. The author is a true professional and it shines through out her book from cover to cover. I have a small library of books on technical analysis. However, this is one book I pick up to re-read again and again. She gives a sense of realistic expectations one can rely upon technical analysis for and how to integrate the discipline into one's trading plan. The pros and con's of each aspect of technical analysis is discussed and highlighted. The material flows logically in clear easy to understand manner. This is an indication of an author who truly understands and has practiced the craft and communicates it effectively. I whole heartedly recommend this book.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2006-07-07 07:52:05 EST)
02-27-05 5 11\13
(Hide Review...)  Way better than expected
Reviewer Permalink
I was surprised with how informative this book really is. I was expecting to get a very broad overview of TA, but this book really has a lot of useful information that can help you make money in the markets. Well worth the money if you ask me.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2006-07-07 07:52:05 EST)
11-20-04 5 13\37
(Hide Review...)  The funniest book I have read in years
Reviewer Permalink
I am new to "technical analysis". I wanted to see what the fuss was all about, and this books was very helpful towards that goal ... it is about numerology, astrology and palmistry. Not literally of course, but the feel is the same. There are two opposing schools of thought on the subject of market investing, the "efficient market" theorists, whose ranks include numerous Nobel Prize winners and university professors writing on the subject. They basically all say that while you can trade off risk versus potential return, etc. you can't "beat" the market and that "market timing" just plain doesn't work. The other school, "technical analysis", says that merely by analyzing price fluctuations over time, and nothing more, you can. Its advocates include various authors of books and software programs who have no other qualifications than the recommendations of other authors on technical analysis. To get a sense of how funny "Technical Analysis for Dummies" truly is, you need read no further than the section "Magic Numbers: 'The Secret of the Universe'" on how to determine when a market "dip" has occurred. Sometimes it is after a drop equal to the ratio of two Fibonacci numbers such as 62% or 38%, but then other times it might be 50%, or 25% or 12.5%. And of course even this shotgun scattering of numbers won't always work, because as the book itself says "even in the absence of the occasional historic event like 1929, in regular trading even the best indicator fails to work all the time. In fact, some of the best indicators work less than 50% of the time, and that's when conditions are normal! Critics use this awful statistic to say that technical analysis is a waste of time.". Say what?? For a great laugh, I cannot recommend this book strongly enough.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2006-07-07 07:52:05 EST)
09-03-04 3 8\10
(Hide Review...)  Pickup truck
Reviewer Permalink
This book is like a Ford pickup truck. It is functional. No extras. If that is what you are looking for then great. I would have prefered some strategies.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2006-07-07 07:52:05 EST)
08-22-04 5 15\17
(Hide Review...)  Finally a book on TA that I can understand
Reviewer Permalink
After reading(or trying to read)a few books on technical analysis I really found myself either not understanding the material or worse yet, just bored. Barbara Rockfeller's TA for dummies puts some extremely hard information to grasp and puts in a way that is understandable and enjoyable to read. I found the book not overly simple however and I believe it could be used by technical analysists at various levels. I rarely read a book cover to cover, but this one I did. If you've been struggling with TA-I recommend giving this book a try.
(Review Data Last Updated: 2006-07-07 07:52:05 EST)
  
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