Awesome Oscillator (AO)
Last updated
Last updated
The Awesome Oscillator (AO) is a momentum indicator developed by Bill Williams. It’s used to measure market momentum by comparing recent market activity to a longer historical period. The AO helps traders identify potential trend reversals or continuation points based on market momentum.
It’s called “awesome” not just as a catchy name—it’s designed to simplify momentum tracking in a way that’s visually easy to interpret, using simple histogram bars.
The AO calculates the difference between a 34-period and a 5-period simple moving average (SMA). But instead of using closing prices, it applies the averages to the midpoints of each candlestick:
Midpoint = (High + Low) / 2
So, the formula looks like this:
AO = SMA(5) of Midpoints – SMA(34) of Midpoints
The result is displayed as a histogram that oscillates above and below a zero line:
Above zero: bullish momentum
Below zero: bearish momentum
Green Bars: Momentum is increasing (the current bar is higher than the previous).
Red Bars: Momentum is decreasing (the current bar is lower than the previous).
Zero Line Crossover:
Cross above = possible bullish trend.
Cross below = possible bearish trend.
Twin Peaks:
Bullish Twin Peaks: Two red peaks below zero, the second one higher than the first, followed by a green bar.
Bearish Twin Peaks: Two green peaks above zero, the second one lower than the first, followed by a red bar.
Saucer Setup:
A quick momentum shift. Look for two red bars followed by a green one (bullish saucer), or two green bars followed by a red (bearish saucer).
The indicator comes with default settings (5 and 34 SMA on midpoint price), and these are commonly used across platforms.
You usually don’t need to change the settings, as they are designed to balance short- and long-term market movement. However, experienced traders might adjust periods based on the asset’s volatility or trading style.
Trend Confirmation: Use AO with moving averages to confirm the direction of the trend.
Entry Signal: Look for a zero line crossover in the direction of the trend.
Momentum Reversals: Twin Peaks and Saucer patterns are great tools to catch early shifts in market sentiment.
Combine with Other Tools: Use RSI or MACD alongside AO for stronger confirmation.
Example: During an uptrend, if AO crosses above zero and shows green bars with a bullish saucer pattern, that could be your entry point.
Ignoring market context: AO works best in trending environments. In choppy, sideways markets, it can give many false signals.
Over-relying on color: A green bar doesn’t always mean bullish — it just means momentum is increasing relative to the last bar. Always combine AO signals with price action or other indicators.
Late entries: AO is a lagging indicator by nature, so some signals may come after a move has already begun.
The Awesome Oscillator is a simple yet powerful momentum tool. While it doesn't predict price, it gives traders a clear view of the market's "push" in either direction. When used with proper context and other indicators, it can help you time entries and exits with more confidence.
