Parameters
Overview
Section titled “Overview”MACD has three parameters: Fast EMA period, Slow EMA period, and Signal Line period.
Fast Period
What It Controls: EMA period for the fast line.
Default: 12 bars
How It Works:
- Lower values (5–10): More responsive, more signals
- Standard values (11–16): Balanced
- Higher values (17–25): Smoother, fewer signals
What Happens at Extremes
Timeframe Recommendations
| Timeframe | Recommended | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 1-Hour | 14 | Standard |
| 4-Hour | 14–16 | Balanced |
| Daily | 14–21 | Position trading |
Slow Period
What It Controls: EMA period for the slow line.
Default: 26 bars
How It Works:
- Lower values (5–10): More responsive, more signals
- Standard values (11–16): Balanced
- Higher values (17–25): Smoother, fewer signals
What Happens at Extremes
Timeframe Recommendations
| Timeframe | Recommended | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 1-Hour | 14 | Standard |
| 4-Hour | 14–16 | Balanced |
| Daily | 14–21 | Position trading |
Signal Line Period
What It Controls: EMA smoothing for the signal line.
Default: 9 bars
How It Works:
- Lower values (5–10): More responsive, more signals
- Standard values (11–16): Balanced
- Higher values (17–25): Smoother, fewer signals
What Happens at Extremes
Timeframe Recommendations
| Timeframe | Recommended | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 1-Hour | 14 | Standard |
| 4-Hour | 14–16 | Balanced |
| Daily | 14–21 | Position trading |