Fred McAllen’s Trading the Trends is a straightforward yet deeply instructive guide to identifying and profiting from the core rhythm of the markets—trend movement. Instead of cluttering charts with unnecessary indicators, McAllen focuses on the essential truth that price itself defines direction. This book teaches traders to recognize the precise points where trends begin, how they evolve, and most importantly, when they end.

McAllen breaks down trend mechanics through real chart illustrations, showing how volume, momentum, and price action combine to signal genuine shifts in market control. The book’s approach suits those who want to eliminate noise and trade with simplicity and confidence. Readers gain not only the skill to detect sustainable trends early but also the discipline to avoid premature entries and exits—a cornerstone of consistent profitability.

Core Concepts:

At its foundation, the book redefines trend analysis as a blend of market structure awareness and emotional control. McAllen explains the relationship between higher highs and higher lows, why trendlines alone are insufficient, and how traders can validate direction through volume confirmation. He distinguishes between primary, secondary, and minor trends, offering methods for aligning trades with the dominant market direction.
The material emphasizes reading momentum without oscillators, teaching traders to see market strength directly through price formations. Each concept is supported by clear step-by-step chart analysis that demonstrates the logic behind every move. McAllen also dedicates attention to market psychology—understanding how crowd behaviour sustains or destroys a trend—and how to stay aligned with that flow.

Inside the Chart:

The book’s charts are simple, precise, and fully explained. McAllen guides readers through real trading examples in equities and futures, mapping the life cycle of a trend—from accumulation to markup, distribution, and reversal. Each illustration clarifies how a single price bar contributes to the broader trend story. The charts show practical application: how to trail stops, identify failed breakouts, and manage trades across various timeframes. Readers finish with the ability to recognize trend continuation vs. exhaustion at a glance—an invaluable edge in real-time decision making.

Author’s Edge:

Fred McAllen brings decades of experience in technical trading, distilled into an accessible teaching style. His unique contribution is the focus on pure price logic—the idea that a trader needs no more than trend recognition, confirmation, and discipline to succeed. Unlike many authors who overcomplicate strategy, McAllen’s philosophy aligns with seasoned professionals who master clarity over complexity. His teaching is grounded, practical, and designed to help traders regain confidence by understanding how price truly moves.