The 11 Best Books for Stock Technical Analysis You Need to Read

Think you've got the stock market figured out? Think again. A staggering 80% of day traders quit within the first two years. The market is a beast that's ever-changing, and to tame it, you need the right tools and knowledge. That's where we come in.

• Why Stock Technical Analysis is Non-Negotiable for Success
• A curated list of 11 must-read best technical analysis books
• Insider tips on how to pick the book that suits your trading style
• A guide on how to supercharge your analysis using Wisesheets tools alongside these books

P.S., Speaking of technical analysis tools, have you checked out Wisesheets yet? It's the ultimate add-on for Excel and Google Sheets that brings real-time stock data right to your fingertips. Perfect for anyone looking to find solid investment opportunities without breaking a sweat.

Why Stock Technical Analysis is Non-Negotiable for Success

You might've heard the saying, "The trend is your friend." Well, it's not just a catchy phrase; it's the cornerstone of stock technical analysis. Ignore it, and you're essentially gambling. But how do you spot these trends? How do you make sense of the squiggly lines and candlestick patterns on a stock chart?

• Understanding Market Trends" Recognize bullish and bearish markets to make informed decisions. For example, a rising moving average could indicate a bullish trend. Use Wisesheets to track real-time price data and confirm investment trends.
• Risk Management: Learn how to set stop-loss orders to protect your investments. According to a study by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), over 70% of retail investor accounts lose money when trading CFDs. Don't be a statistic. Wisesheets' custom screener can help you identify low-risk opportunities.
• Data-Driven Decisions: Move beyond gut feelings and base your trades on solid data. If the P/E ratio of a stock is significantly lower than its industry average, it might be undervalued.
• Timing is Everything: Know the best times to enter and exit a trade for maximum profit. Use Wisesheets' live price data to time your entries and exits to the second.
• Volume Analysis: Understand the significance of trading volumes and what they indicate. High volume often confirms the existing stock trends. Wisesheets can provide real-time volume data.
• Pattern Recognition: Identify classic chart patterns like 'Head and Shoulders' or 'Double Bottom' that signal potential price movements. A 'Cup and Handle' pattern often indicates a bullish breakout.
• Indicator Savvy: Master the use of technical indicators like MACD, RSI, and moving averages. Use Wisesheets to plot these indicators directly onto your charts for easy reference.
• Emotional Discipline: Technical analysis helps you trade without letting emotions cloud your judgment. According to a study, emotional decisions accounted for 75% of trading losses. Stick to the data.

Now, you could go the trial-and-error route, but why risk it when there are proven methodologies out there? Books written by experts who've been in the trenches and emerged victorious. And guess what? These methodologies sync beautifully with Wisesheets' features like real-time price data and custom screeners.

#1. "Technical Analysis of the Financial Markets" by John J. Murphy

• Pages/Chapters: 576 pages / 19 chapters
• Reading Time: Approximately 15 hours / 7-10 days
• Reading Level: Intermediate to Advanced
• Type of Investor: For those who are serious about diving deep into technical analysis

Written in 1999, this book by John J. Murphy is often considered the bible of technical analysis. Murphy is a former technical analyst for CNBC and has over 40 years of market experience. What sets this book apart is its comprehensive approach to the subject, covering everything from the basics to the most complex theories. The book is a recipient of numerous awards and is used as a textbook in various financial courses.

Key Takeaways

• Market Trends: Understanding and identifying future market trends, both short-term and long-term.
• Chart Patterns: Detailed insights into interpreting various chart patterns.
• Technical Indicators: An in-depth look at indicators like MACD, RSI, and moving averages.
• Risk Management: Strategies for effective risk management, including the use of stop-loss orders.

Reader Review: "This book is a must-read for anyone serious about trading. It's like the encyclopedia of technical analysis." – Review from Amazon.

The book's focus on technical indicators and real-time data aligns perfectly with Wisesheets' capabilities. You can apply Murphy's teachings with our real-time price data and custom screener. It's like having Murphy himself guide you through your trading journey.

Buy it on Amazon

#2. "The Little Book of Common Sense Investing" by John C. Bogle

• Pages/Chapters: 304 pages / 16 chapters
• Reading Time: Approximately 6 hours / 3-5 days
• Reading Level: Beginner to Intermediate
• Type of Investor: Ideal for those new to investing and looking for long-term strategies

Published in 2007, this gem by John C. Bogle, the founder of Vanguard Group, is a classic that champions the merits of low-cost index investing. Bogle's philosophy is simple: why try to beat the market when you can just be the market? This book has converted many to the low-cost index investing strategy, offering a less risky, more reliable path to wealth accumulation.

Key Takeaways

• Index Investing: The benefits and how-tos of investing in low-cost index funds.
• Cost Matters: The impact of fees and costs on your long-term investment returns.
• Emotional Discipline: How to invest without letting emotions get in the way.
• Time in the Market: The importance of long-term investment over timing the market.

Reader Review: "Bogle's approach to investing is so simple yet so effective. This book changed my perspective on investing." – Review from Goodreads.

As Bogle's approach is more geared towards long-term investing, you can use Wisesheets to get dividend data and key metrics to pick the best index funds and track their performance over time. It's like having Bogle's wisdom and Wisesheets' data working in tandem for your financial success.

Buy it on Amazon

#3. "Market Wizards" by Jack D. Schwager [UPDATED]

• Pages/Chapters: 512 pages / 17 chapters
• Reading Time: Approximately 12 hours / 5-7 days
• Reading Level: Intermediate
• Type of Investor: For those who want to learn from the best in the business

First hitting the shelves in 1989, "Market Wizards" by Jack D. Schwager is a collection of interviews with some of the most successful traders in the world. This book is a staple in trading literature and has been translated into multiple languages.

Schwager himself is a renowned industry expert, and his book offers a rare peek into the minds of market legends. "Market Wizards" has inspired a generation of traders and is often cited as a must-read for anyone serious about trading.

Quote from Schwager: "The market is a device for transferring money from the impatient to the patient." – from a YouTube interview.

Key Takeaways

• Trading Psychology: Insights into the mindset of successful traders.
• Risk Management: How top traders manage risk to maximize returns.
• Trading Strategies: Various approaches to trading, straight from the experts.
• Market Timing: The art and science of timing your trades for optimal results.

Reader Review: "This book is like a masterclass in trading. The interviews are eye-opening and full of practical advice." – Review from Amazon.

Buy it on Amazon

#4. "How to Make Money in Stocks" by William J. O'Neil

• Pages/Chapters: 464 pages / 20 chapters
• Reading Time: Approximately 14 hours / 6-8 days
• Reading Level: Beginner to Intermediate
• Type of Investor: For those keen on a systematic approach to stock trading

Published in 1988, William J. O'Neil's book is a cornerstone in the world of stock trading. O'Neil, the founder of Investor's Business Daily, introduces the CAN SLIM strategy, a seven-step process for finding high-growth stocks before they make big price gains. The book has sold millions of copies worldwide and is highly recommended by industry experts.

Quote from O'Neil: "The whole secret to winning in the stock market is to lose the least amount possible when you're not right." – from a podcast interview.

Key Takeaways

• CAN SLIM Strategy: A detailed breakdown of O'Neil's seven-step process for stock selection.
• Chart Reading: How to interpret Japanese candlestick charting techniques and contains encyclopedia of chart patterns for better trading decisions.
• Market Timing: Techniques for entering and exiting trades at the right time.
• Risk Management: Effective strategies for minimizing losses and maximizing gains.

Reader Review: "O'Neil's CAN SLIM strategy is a game-changer. This book is a must-have for anyone serious about stock trading systems." – Review from Goodreads.

The CAN SLIM strategy focuses on real-time data and key metrics, which is where Wisesheets shines. Use our live price data and financials to apply the CAN SLIM methodology in real-time. It's like having O'Neil's strategy and Wisesheets' data in perfect harmony, setting you up for trading success.

Buy it on Amazon

#5. "A Random Walk Down Wall Street" by Burton G. Malkiel

• Pages/Chapters: 496 pages / 12 chapters
• Reading Time: Approximately 16 hours / 7-9 days
• Reading Level: Beginner to Intermediate
• Type of Investor: For those interested in both active and passive investment strategies

First published in 1973, Burton G. Malkiel's book is a seminal work that challenges traditional stock-picking methods. The book has been through 12 editions and sold over 1.5 million copies.

Malkiel, a Princeton economist, argues that a blindfolded monkey throwing darts at a newspaper's financial pages could select a portfolio that would perform as well as one carefully selected by experts. The book has been a catalyst for the debate between active and passive investment strategies, influencing a generation of investors.

Quote from Malkiel: "A blindfolded monkey throwing darts at a newspaper's financial pages could select a portfolio that would do just as well as one carefully selected by experts." – from a keynote speech.

Key Takeaways

• Efficient Market Hypothesis: An exploration of why it's so hard to beat the market.
• Active vs Passive Investing: A balanced view of the pros and cons of both strategies.
• Investment Vehicles: A guide to various types of investments, from stocks to bonds to real estate.
• Behavioral Economics: How psychology affects investment decisions.

Reader Review: "This book opened my eyes to the realities of the stock market. It's a must-read for anyone interested in investing." – Review from Amazon.

While Malkiel leans towards passive investing, Wisesheets can still add value to your strategy. Use our key metrics and dividend data to select a diversified portfolio, whether you're an active trader or a passive investor. It's like having the best of both worlds, thanks to Wisesheets.

Buy it on Amazon

#6. "Trading in the Zone" by Mark Douglas

• Pages/Chapters: 240 pages / 11 chapters
• Reading Time: Approximately 8 hours / 3-4 days
• Reading Level: Intermediate
• Type of Investor: For traders focusing on psychology and mental discipline

Published in 2001, "Trading in the Zone" by Mark Douglas is a deep dive into the psychology of trading. Douglas, a trading coach and industry consultant, emphasizes that successful trading is 80% psychological and 20% methodological. Highly praised in the trading community, this book is often cited as a must-read for psychological preparation.

Quote from Douglas: "The market doesn't know you exist. You can't do anything to influence it. You can only control your behavior." – from a podcast interview.

Key Takeaways

• Trading Psychology: The importance of mental discipline in trading.
• Emotional Barriers: Identifying and overcoming emotional hurdles.
• Risk Management: Psychological aspects of managing risk.
• Consistency: How to develop a consistent trading approach.

Reader Review: "This book helped me understand the emotional pitfalls in trading by describing basic technical analysis concepts and how to overcome them. It's a game-changer." – Review from Goodreads.

Buy it on Amazon

#7. "The Man Who Solved the Market: How Jim Simons Launched the Quant Revolution" by Gregory Zuckerman

• Pages/Chapters: 384 pages / 14 chapters
• Reading Time: Approximately 10 hours / 4-6 days
• Reading Level: Intermediate to Advanced
• Type of Investor: For those interested in quantitative trading and algorithmic strategies

Published in 2019, this book by Gregory Zuckerman delves into the life and strategies of Jim Simons, the mathematician who founded Renaissance Technologies, one of the world's most successful hedge funds. Zuckerman is a seasoned Wall Street Journal reporter, and his book offers a rare glimpse into the secretive world of quantitative trading. The book has received numerous accolades and is a New York Times Bestseller.

Key Takeaways

• Quantitative Trading: An inside look at how algorithms can outperform human traders.
• Risk Management: How Renaissance Technologies manages risk using mathematical models.
• Data-Driven Decisions: The importance of relying on data over intuition.
• Market Anomalies: How to exploit market inefficiencies using algorithms.

Reader Review: "This book is a fascinating read about the most secretive and successful hedge fund. A must-read for anyone interested in quantitative trading." – Review from Amazon.

Buy it on Amazon

#8. "The Behavioral Investor" by Daniel Crosby

• Pages/Chapters: 242 pages / 10 chapters
• Reading Time: Approximately 8 hours / 3-4 days
• Reading Level: Intermediate
• Type of Investor: For those interested in the psychological aspects of stock analysis and investing

Published in 2018, Daniel Crosby's "The Behavioral Investor" takes a psychological approach to stock analysis and investing. The book has received high praise for its insightful take on behavioral finance.

Crosby, a psychologist and behavioral finance expert, delves into how human behavior influences investment decisions, often for the worse. This book has been eye-opening for investors, offering a new lens through which to view stock analysis and investment strategies.

Quote from Crosby: "Understanding yourself is the first step to becoming a successful investor." – from a TEDx Talk.

Key Takeaways

• Behavioral Biases: Understanding common psychological traps in stock analysis.
• Emotional Investing: How emotions can cloud judgment and lead to poor investment decisions.
• Risk Perception: The psychology behind how we perceive and manage risk.
• Data-Driven Investing: The importance of relying on data and statistical analysis over emotional impulses.

Reader Review: "This book has completely changed how I approach stock analysis. Understanding my behavioral biases has made me a better investor." – Review from Goodreads.

Buy it on Amazon

#9. "Common Stocks and Uncommon Profits" by Philip Fisher

• Pages/Chapters: 320 pages / 11 chapters
• Reading Time: Approximately 10 hours / 4-6 days
• Reading Level: Intermediate
• Type of Investor: For those interested in growth investing and qualitative analysis

Though originally published in 1958, the principles in Philip Fisher's book remain highly relevant today. The book is considered a classic in the field of growth investing and has been endorsed by the likes of Warren Buffett.

Fisher, a pioneer in growth investing, focuses on qualitative factors like company management, competitive advantage, and market potential, offering a different angle from traditional value investing. Fisher's book has been a foundational text for growth investors, providing a comprehensive framework for qualitative stock analysis.

Quote from Fisher: "The stock market is filled with individuals who know the price of everything, but the value of nothing." – from various interviews.

Key Takeaways

• Qualitative Analysis: How to assess stocks based on non-financial factors like management quality.
• Growth Investing: Fisher's principles for identifying high-growth potential stocks.
• Scuttlebutt Method: Fisher's unique approach to gathering information on potential investments.
• Long-Term Focus: The importance of a long-term perspective in growth investing.

Reader Review: "This book has been instrumental in shaping my growth investing strategy. Fisher's insights are timeless." – Review from Goodreads.

Buy it on Amazon

#10. "The Intelligent Investor" Revised Edition by Benjamin Graham and Jason Zweig

• Pages/Chapters: 640 pages / 20 chapters
• Reading Time: Approximately 20 hours / 10-14 days
• Reading Level: Intermediate
• Type of Investor: For those who want a foundational understanding of value investing

Though originally published in 1949, the revised edition from 2006 brings Benjamin Graham's timeless wisdom into the modern age. This book is often cited as the "bible of investing" and has sold millions of copies worldwide.

Jason Zweig, a respected financial journalist, adds contemporary examples and commentary. Graham, known as the "father of value investing," provides a framework for analyzing stocks that has stood the test of time. The book has been a cornerstone for value investors and is considered a must-read for anyone serious about stock analysis.

Quote from Graham: "The stock investor is neither right or wrong because others agreed or disagreed with him; he is right because his facts and analysis are right." – from various interviews.

Key Takeaways

• Value Investing: The principles and philosophy behind value investing.
• Stock Analysis: How to analyze stocks using Graham's framework.
• Margin of Safety: The concept of buying stocks at a price well below their intrinsic value.
• Long-Term Investing: The importance of a long-term perspective in stock investing.

Reader Review: "This book is the cornerstone of my investing knowledge. Graham's principles are timeless." – Review from Goodreads.

Graham's focus on thorough stock analysis is where Wisesheets comes into play. Use our financials, key metrics, and dividend data to conduct a Graham-style analysis. It's like having the wisdom of Benjamin Graham and the power of Wisesheets combined for your investment success.

Buy it on Amazon

#11. "Stocks on the Move: Beating the Market with Hedge Fund Momentum Strategies" by Andreas F. Clenow

• Pages/Chapters: 286 pages / 9 chapters
• Reading Time: Approximately 9 hours / 4-5 days
• Reading Level: Intermediate to Advanced
• Type of Investor: For those interested in momentum investing and hedge fund strategies

Published in 2015, Andreas F. Clenow's book offers a deep dive into momentum investing, a strategy often employed by hedge funds. The book has been praised for its practical approach to a complex subject, making hedge fund strategies accessible to the average investor.

Clenow, a hedge fund manager himself, breaks down complex strategies into actionable steps for individual investors. This book has demystified hedge fund strategies for the average investor, making momentum investing more accessible.

Key Takeaways

• Momentum Investing: An in-depth look at how to capitalize on stock momentum for gains.
• Hedge Fund Strategies: Breaking down complex hedge fund methods into actionable steps.
• Risk Management: How to manage risk while employing momentum strategies.
• Stock Screening: Tips on how to identify stocks with strong momentum.

Reader Review: "Clenow makes hedge fund strategies understandable and actionable. This book is a game-changer for my investing approach." – Review from Amazon.

If momentum investing piques your interest, Wisesheets is your perfect companion. Use our live price data and custom screener to identify stocks with strong momentum, aligning with Clenow's strategies. It's like having a hedge fund playbook and Wisesheets' real-time data working together to supercharge your portfolio.

Buy it on Amazon

Insider Tips on How to Pick the Book That Suits Your Trading Style

Choosing the right book for your trading style is like finding the perfect pair of running shoes for a marathon. It can make or break your performance. Here's how to make sure you're picking the book that aligns with your trading goals and strategies.

Know Your Trading Style

First things first. Are you a day trader, a swing trader, or a long-term investor? Different books cater to different styles. For day traders, books focusing on technical analysis are your best bet. Long-term investors might lean more towards titles that delve into fundamental analysis or value investing.

Check the Author's Credentials

Would you take fitness advice from someone who's never set foot in a gym? Probably not. The same goes for trading books. Make sure the author has a proven track record in the stock market or finance.

Look for Updated Editions

The stock market isn't static. It evolves. Books that have been updated or revised to reflect current market conditions are generally more reliable.

Read Reviews but Take Them with a Grain of Salt

Reviews can provide valuable insights, but they're also subjective. What works for one person might not work for another. Use reviews to gauge general sentiment, but don't let them be your sole deciding factor.

Match the Book with Your Skill Level

Some books are beginner-friendly, while others assume you're already familiar with market jargon. Make sure the book you choose aligns with your current knowledge level.

How to Supercharge Your Analysis Using Wisesheets Tools Alongside These Books

You've got the books, but what about the technical tools to bring those strategies to life? That's where Wisesheets comes in. Our add-on is like the Swiss Army knife of stock analysis, offering a range of features that can supercharge your investment game.

StatementDump: Get the Financials You Need

Simply search for tickers or companies, and choose from standardized financials, annual data, or quarter data. Then hit "Get Data." It's that easy. For international stocks, we use the same ticker naming system as Yahoo Finance.

WiseScreener: Tailor Your Search

Set your ticker range and parameter range, then click "Get Data." You can even create buckets for more specific screening.

WiseFunction: Deep Dive into Metrics

The WISE function allows you to pull specific metrics for a range of tickers. For example:

• =WISE("AMZN","Revenue",2019,"Q3")
• =WISE("AAPL","ROE","TTM")

WisePriceFunction: Track Prices in Real-Time

The WISEPRICE function lets you track stock prices with optional date ranges. For instance:

• =WISEPRICE("TSLA","Price")
• =WISEPRICE("AAPL","Close",2)

This real-time tracking is crucial when you're planning to trade significant events and need up-to-the-minute price data.

WiseFundsFunction (Beta): Get the Scoop on Funds

Interested in ETFs or mutual funds? Use the WISEFUNDS function to pull key metrics like Expense Ratio or Net Asset Value (NAV).

• =WISEFUNDS("SPY","Expense Ratio")
• =WISEFUNDS("PICK","Nav")

This feature is particularly useful for those interested in diversifying their portfolio, especially when you're strategizing entry and exit points in the market or analyzing candlestick charts for fund performance.

Whether you're diving into value investing or exploring quantitative methods, Wisesheets is your go-to tool for real-time data and key metrics. Use it alongside your chosen book's strategies for a comprehensive, data-driven approach to stock analysis.

Elevate Your Stock Analysis Game with Wisesheets

You've made it to the end, and you're now armed with a curated list of books that can transform your approach to stock analysis. Knowledge is power, and you're well on your way to becoming a stock market maestro.

• Know Your Trading Style: Tailor your book choice to your trading style.
• Author Credentials: Always check the author's background.
• Updated Editions: Look for the most current information.
• Read Reviews: Take them into account but not as gospel.
• Match Skill Level: Choose a book that aligns with your expertise.

P.S., Don't forget that Wisesheets is here to make your stock analysis even more robust. Whether you're a day trader or a long-term investor, our add-on seamlessly integrates with your strategies, offering real-time data and key metrics. It's like having a financial analyst and a data scientist, all rolled into one, right in your spreadsheet.