A Short Course in Technical Trading

Unlock the essentials of profitable trading with this concise, practical, and highly accessible guide from one of the most respected names in technical analysis. A Short Course in Technical Trading by Perry J. Kaufman delivers exactly what its title promises—a streamlined course packed with proven tools and real-world examples that traders can immediately apply.

Whether you’re new to trading or seeking to refine your edge, Kaufman walks you through the key principles of systematic, trend-based trading in a clear and digestible format. From breakout strategies and trendlines to risk control and volatility analysis, this book equips you with a toolbox of strategies designed for real-world markets.

You’ll learn how to analyze charts, build simple yet effective trading systems, and most importantly, understand how and when to enter and exit trades. Kaufman doesn’t just explain the mechanics—he also integrates the psychology of trading, helping you develop the discipline to manage losses and let profits run.

Unlike overly theoretical manuals, this book focuses on actionable strategies that work in real markets. Kaufman includes trading “games,” real chart examples, and step-by-step lessons that let you learn by doing—not just reading.

What You’ll Learn

• How to identify and trade market trends using moving averages, breakout strategies, and regression analysis
• Practical charting skills, including trendlines, channels, and support/resistance analysis
• Risk control techniques using volatility bands, stops, and capital conservation principles
• How to recognize and manage psychological pitfalls common to new and experienced traders
• How to apply rules systematically and develop your own trading game plan

Key Benefits

• Condenses decades of Kaufman’s experience into a digestible and engaging format
• Teaches you how to build a robust trading strategy without overcomplicating it
• Emphasizes risk management and capital preservation for long-term success
• Includes trading exercises and review questions to reinforce learning
• Bridges the gap between analysis and actual trade execution

Who This Book Is For

• Beginner to intermediate traders seeking a structured, proven roadmap to profitable trading
• Investors looking to transition from passive investing to active trading
• Self-taught traders who want to solidify their technical foundation
• Anyone who values rules-based, objective decision-making in the markets

Table of Contents

1. Timing Is Everything
2. Charting the Trend
3. Breakout Trends
4. Calculating the Trend
5. The Trading Game
6. Channels and Bands
7. Event-Driven Trends
8. Controlling the Risk of a Trade
9. One-Day Chart Patterns and Reversals
10. Continuation Patterns
11. Top and Bottom Formations
12. Retracements, Reversals, Fibonacci Numbers, and Gann
13. Volume, Breadth, and Open Interest
14. Momentum and MACD
15. Overbought/Oversold Indicators and Double Smoothing
16. Managing Your Entry and Exit
17. Volatility and Portfolio Management
18. Dow Theory