In this guide
The timing differenceClose, wick and time windowWhy this matters for calculationsStudy with hypothetical pathsThe timing difference
At the instant a value first crosses a level, you do not yet know the full path that follows. The label “fakeout” is therefore usually applied after additional movement is observed. This is a useful reminder that many chart terms become obvious only with hindsight.
Close, wick and time window
Different chart users apply different rules. Some require a closing value beyond the level, some care about an intraperiod high or low, and others require the move to remain beyond the level for a chosen number of bars. There is no universal threshold. Any rule should be stated explicitly rather than hidden inside the word “confirmation”.
Why this matters for calculations
Distance beyond a level can be measured objectively. Persistence, quality and future success cannot be inferred from that distance alone. A 0.5% move beyond a line and a 3% move beyond the same line are different measurements, but neither number automatically tells you which outcome will follow.
Study with hypothetical paths
The Visual Breakout Lab includes synthetic paths that cross a boundary and either continue or return. Because the values are fictional, you can focus on definitions instead of accidentally interpreting the page as a view on a real instrument.