Quick Reference Guide to ABC Wave Patterns in Elliott Waves — Full Analysis of Corrective and Impulse Waves

In Elliott Wave Theory, the ABC wave is the core foundation for understanding market correction structures. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced trader, mastering the various forms of ABC waves is essential for effective technical analysis. This article compiles the most comprehensive wave pattern guide for quick reference when encountering complex market movements.

Basic Logic of ABC Waves

Elliott Wave Theory divides market movements into two main categories: impulse waves and corrective waves. Impulse waves drive the market along the main trend, typically consisting of five sub-waves (labeled 1-2-3-4-5). Corrective waves, on the other hand, move against the trend, retracing part of the previous move and adjusting market sentiment.

Corrective waves usually consist of three ABC waves. This is the fundamental basis for understanding all correction patterns. Although each ABC wave has the same structure (all are ABC three-wave structures), differences in the internal sub-waves can produce entirely different market patterns. These variations increase the complexity of wave analysis but also provide clues for traders to predict market direction.

The Three Main ABC Correction Wave Patterns

In correction waves, the most common ABC wave forms are: flat, zigzag, and triangle. While all follow the ABC three-wave structure, each has distinct characteristics and trading implications.

Flat Pattern ABC Structure Rules

A flat is a correction wave with an ABC structure that moves opposite to the trend of the higher level. Sometimes, flats can be frustrating because they often appear as sideways consolidation zones. This is their hallmark—slow, boring, and uncertain in direction.

A flat consists of 3 ABC waves, with key features:

• Wave A composed of 3 sub-waves (not forming a triangle)
• Wave B usually has 3 sub-waves but can also be a triangle
• Wave C composed of 5 sub-waves, which can be impulsive or ending wedge
• Wave B typically retraces about 90% of Wave A; if retracement exceeds 100%, it indicates an extended or running flat (B wave surpasses the previous trend)

There are three main types of flats, distinguished by the length of B and C waves. These subtle differences are crucial for predicting subsequent moves.

Zigzag ABC Pattern Characteristics

A zigzag is a correction with an ABC structure that moves opposite to the higher-level trend. Unlike flats, zigzags tend to be more directional and steep, resembling a quick, forceful reversal.

The rules for zigzag ABC waves are more strict:

• Wave A consists of 5 sub-waves (can be leading wedge or impulsive)
• Wave B usually has 3 sub-waves or can be a triangle
• Wave C consists of 5 sub-waves, impulsive or ending wedge
• Wave B typically retraces 38.2% to 61.8% of Wave A; retracement over 78.6% is rare
• Wave C’s typical targets are 0.618, 1.00, or 1.618 times the length of Wave A

Zigzags are common in Wave 2 corrections and less so in Wave 4. They reflect market panic or rapid reversals at early correction stages.

Triangles and ABC Structures

Triangles are correction patterns with an ABCDE structure. Although named as five waves, each wave internally is a three-wave ABC structure (3-3-3-3-3), following the basic ABC logic. Triangles represent a balance of bullish and bearish forces: “the market has not yet made a clear directional choice.”

Key features of triangles:

• Waves labeled A-B-C-D-E, each subdivided into 3 sub-waves
• Usually, a breakout occurs after wave E in the opposite direction
• Wave E often breaks below the trendline of A-C, then reverses
• Breakthrough of wave D signals an imminent breakout in the target direction
• Breakthrough of wave B confirms the triangle’s breakout

Triangles are lateral corrections, often appearing at the end of structures, such as Wave 4, B waves in zigzags, or X waves. They should never be Wave 2 or Wave A.

Complex Correction Patterns and Multiple ABC Structures

When markets become more complex, ABC corrections can appear as multiple combined structures connected by “X” waves.

Double Zigzag (WXY): Consists of two zigzag corrections connected by an X wave. Think of it as a larger ABC structure where the C wave is itself a complete ABC (Y wave).

• Y often similar in length to W; targets include 0.618 or 1.618 extensions of W
• X typically retraces 38.2%, 50%, or 78.6% of W
• Also called “double three” structure

Double and Triple Combinations (WXY, WXYXZ): Comprise two or three ABC correction structures connected by X waves. These can be a mix of zigzags, flats, or triangles, not necessarily all zigzags.

• Double combinations tend to be less steep, more sideways
• Y waves often similar in length to W
• X waves commonly retrace 61.8%, 78.6%, or 88.7% of W

Triple combinations involve three ABC structures connected by two X waves, with any mix of correction types.

Impulse Waves and ABC Correction Alternation

The principle of alternation states that related waves tend to differ in correction style or form. If one correction is sharp and impulsive, the next is likely to be more sideways or gentle.

This is especially important in impulse waves:

• Wave 2 often involves a sharp, deep correction, retracing up to 78.6%
• Wave 4 tends to be milder, retracing around 38.2%, often forming flats, triangles, or double/triple corrections

In ABC corrections, if Wave A is a flat, Wave B might be a zigzag, and vice versa, reflecting the market’s alternating correction styles.

Special Wave Patterns and ABC Application

Ending Wedge and ABC Structure

An ending wedge is a “failing” pattern, often appearing in Wave 5 or C waves. Its internal structure is always a 3-3-3-3-3 ABC pattern, following ABC logic. It often occurs after rapid or extended moves and signals a potential reversal.

Leading Wedge and ABC Logic

Leading wedges appear in Wave 1 or A waves, with internal ABC structures. They represent a tug-of-war between bulls and bears, with overlapping waves. These can be converging or expanding wedges, with the longer Wave 1 indicating a strong trend.

Truncation and ABC Extension

Truncation is a rare phenomenon where Wave 5 ends prematurely, not surpassing Wave 3’s end. To identify truncation, the structure must still show a complete 5-wave internal pattern within Wave 5, even if it appears shortened.

Variations of ABC in Extended Waves

Most impulsive waves contain at least one extension—an impulsive wave that is longer than others. In crypto markets, multiple extensions are common.

Key features of extended waves:

• Extensions occur only in impulsive waves; A and C waves can also extend
• Wave 3 is most frequently extended; Wave 5 can also extend
• Sometimes, both Wave 3 and Wave 5 extend simultaneously
• Extensions can occur within other extensions

When entering Wave 3, recognizing the potential for extension helps maintain a bullish outlook. Avoid premature profit-taking, as corrections tend to be short and rapid.

Fibonacci Ratios in ABC Waves

The ratios listed are probabilistic reference points, not strict rules:

In zigzag corrections:

• Wave B retraces 38.2%–61.8% of Wave A
• Wave C targets are 0.618, 1.00, or 1.618 times Wave A

In flats:

• Wave B retraces about 90% of Wave A
• Over 100% indicates an extended flat

In triangles:

• Waves typically retrace 50%–78.6%

These ratios help identify key levels for entries, exits, and targets.

Practical Application: Recognizing and Trading ABC Waves

Understanding ABC correction patterns is vital for trading:

1. Identify correction phases: Recognize ABC patterns to distinguish correction from trend continuation.
2. Predict reversal points: Analyze the pattern type (flat, zigzag, triangle) to estimate correction depth and duration.
3. Use alternation: Expect that if Wave 2 is sharp, Wave 4 will be milder, aiding in positioning.
4. Trade extensions: When Wave 3 is an extension, maintain bullish bias and look for strong momentum.

Summary

Elliott Wave’s ABC correction waves are fundamental components of market movements. Whether simple flats, zigzags, triangles, or complex combinations, they follow core ABC logic. Mastering their identification and application enhances technical analysis accuracy and trading decisions.

By combining Fibonacci ratios, the principle of alternation, and market context, traders can better anticipate future moves and develop more effective strategies. Remember, ABC waves are not just theoretical constructs—they reflect market psychology and price behavior in action.