Doji Candlestick Pattern
A candle where the open and close finish nearly equal — the market's clearest sign of indecision.
A Doji forms when a candle opens and closes at almost the same price, leaving a very small real body with wicks on one or both sides. It is one of the most talked-about candlestick patterns because it captures a moment of perfect balance between buyers and sellers. On its own a Doji is not bullish or bearish — its meaning comes almost entirely from where it appears. After a strong trend or at a key support or resistance zone, a Doji can hint that momentum is stalling.
How to recognise it
- Open and close are nearly equal, creating a very thin real body.
- Upper and lower wicks can be short or long depending on the variant.
- Long-legged Doji has long wicks on both sides; Gravestone has a long upper wick; Dragonfly has a long lower wick.
- It matters most after an extended move or at a key support/resistance zone.
The psychology behind it
Neither buyers nor sellers could hold control by the close. After a strong trend, that sudden loss of follow-through can warn that the dominant side is tiring and momentum is being challenged.
Frequently asked questions
What does a Doji candlestick mean?
A Doji means the open and close finished almost equal, so buyers and sellers ended the period in balance. It signals indecision and, after a strong move, a possible pause or turning point — but only when confirmed by the following candles.
Is a Doji bullish or bearish?
Neither by default. A Doji is a neutral, indecision candle. It leans bullish or bearish only based on context — for example a Dragonfly Doji at support after a decline is read more constructively than one in the middle of a range.
What are the main types of Doji?
The common variants are the standard Doji, the Long-legged Doji (long wicks both sides), the Gravestone Doji (long upper wick) and the Dragonfly Doji (long lower wick). Each shifts the emphasis of where price was rejected.
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Last reviewed: September 2026 · CandleIQ Learn