Chart patterns are technical analysis tools used to identify potential price movements in financial markets. These patterns are formed when the price of an asset moves in a predictable way, creating a recognizable shape on a chart. Traders use chart patterns to make trading decisions based on the expected price movements that may follow.

There are two main types of chart patterns: continuation and reversal patterns. Continuation patterns suggest that the current trend will continue, while reversal patterns indicate that the trend may be about to change direction.

Some common continuation patterns include:

1. Triangle patterns: These are formed when the price of an asset moves in a narrowing range, forming a triangle shape on a chart. There are three types of triangle patterns: ascending, descending, and symmetrical.

2. Flag and pennant patterns: These are formed when the price of an asset moves in a narrow range after a sharp price movement, forming a flag or pennant shape on a chart.

3. Channel patterns: These are formed when the price of an asset moves within parallel lines, forming a channel shape on a chart.

Some common reversal patterns include:

1. Head and shoulders patterns: These are formed when the price of an asset reaches a peak, followed by a lower peak, and then a lower peak again, forming a head and shoulders shape on a chart.

2. Double top and double bottom patterns: These are formed when the price of an asset reaches a high or low, retraces, and then reaches the same high or low again, forming a double top or double bottom shape on a chart.

3. Wedge patterns: These are formed when the price of an asset moves in a narrowing range, but in the opposite direction of a triangle pattern, forming a wedge shape on a chart.

Chart patterns can be useful tools for traders to identify potential price movements, but they should always be used in conjunction with other technical analysis tools and fundamental analysis to make informed trading decisions.