What are pivot points in technical analysis?
Pivot points are price levels derived from the prior period's high, low, and close. Traders use them as potential support and resistance zones for the next session. When price trades above the pivot, bias is often bullish. When price trades below it, bias is often bearish.
This calculator supports Standard (Floor), Fibonacci, Woodie, and Camarilla methods. Each uses the same prior-period prices but applies different multipliers. For position sizing around support and resistance levels, pair these levels with the bid-ask spread calculator. To gauge momentum alongside static levels, use the relative strength index calculator. To model broader portfolio growth assumptions, use the investment calculator.
Standard pivot point formulas
Where H is the prior high, L is the prior low, C is the prior close, P is the pivot, R1 is the first resistance, and S1 is the first support. Additional levels R2, R3, S2, and S3 extend the range using the prior period range.
Worked example (Standard method)
With H = $150, L = $140, and C = $145, the pivot equals ($150 + $140 + $145) / 3 = $145. First resistance R1 equals 2 × $145 - $140 = $150. First support S1 equals 2 × $145 - $150 = $140.
Method comparison
- Standard / Floor: The classic floor-trader formula using high, low, and close.
- Fibonacci: Applies 38.2%, 61.8%, and 100% of the prior range to the pivot.
- Woodie: Weights the open price more heavily in the pivot calculation.
- Camarilla: Anchors support and resistance levels closer to the prior close.
Frequently asked questions
Which pivot method should I use?
What timeframe should the high, low, and close come from?
Are pivot points guaranteed support or resistance?
Why does Woodie require an open price?
Can I share my inputs?
Resources and references
The formulas and methods in this calculator were checked against these independent sources.