2009-02-01T20:25:34-08:00 annotate annotation chart chartnotes tool trendline fibonacci trend line parallel callout linear regression cycle pitchfork retracements arrows shaded shading shade circle oval vertical raff channel 30077 12118 21292 false true false true 25844 1 1 2009-06-09T13:40:26-07:00 StockCharts Support 209470 ChartNotes Annotation Tool - User Documentation 2009-06-09T13:40:27-07:00 <h1><a name="using_chartnotes">Using ChartNotes</a></h1> <h2><a name="a1"></a><a name="what_is_chartnotes">What is the ChartNotes Annotation Tool?</a></h2> <div class="level2"> <p><strong>ChartNotes<sup>TM</sup></strong> is StockCharts.com's interactive chart annotation tool. This Java applet allows you to add trendlines, text, arrows, Fibonacci retracement lines, and much more to any bar, line, or candlestick chart. It also allows you to examine all of the data on the chart just by moving your mouse. ChartNotes combines these options into one streamlined layout that gives you great control over your chart.</p> <p>To see some examples of ChartNotes at work, visit the <a href="http://stockcharts.com/def/servlet/Favorites.CServlet?obj=public&amp;cmd=show&amp;disp=RED" title="http://stockcharts.com/def/servlet/Favorites.CServlet?obj=public&amp;cmd=show&amp;disp=RED">Public Charts List</a>. It shows what other users are doing with the ChartNotes tool, and will give you some great ideas for your own charts.</p> </div> <h2><a name="a2"></a><a name="adding_annotations">Adding Annotations</a></h2> <div class="level2"> <p>Adding annotations to your chart is as simple as clicking a button:</p> <p><strong>Step 1:</strong> <a href="http://stockcharts.com/school/doku.php?id=support:sharpcharts" title="support:sharpcharts">Create the SharpChart</a> for which you want to annotate.<br /> <em>Make sure the chart is exactly what you want to use before starting ChartNotes!</em><br /> Once you start annotating a chart, you cannot change any of its "SharpCharts" attributes (size, indicators, etc.).</p> <hr /> <p><strong>Step 2:</strong> When the SharpChart is completely ready, click the <strong>Annotate</strong> link on the action bar, immediately beneath the chart.</p> <p><img class="media" src="http://stockcharts.com/school/data/media/support/images/chartnotes/ibm_chartnotes.png" border="0" /></p> <p>A new window displays, and some onscreen processing takes place.</p> <p><img class="media" src="http://stockcharts.com/school/data/media/support/images/chartnotes/loading_chart_image.gif" border="0" alt="Loading Image" title="Loading Image" /></p> <hr /> <p><br /> <strong>Step 3:</strong> Once processing is complete, you can begin annotating your SharpChart inside of the ChartNotes applet!</p> <p><img class="media" src="http://stockcharts.com/school/data/media/support/images/chartnotes/blankchartnotes.gif" border="0" alt="ChartNotes" title="ChartNotes" /></p> <p><strong>Note:</strong> If you don't see the chart appear in a reasonable amount of time, try using our <a href="http://stockcharts.com/school/doku.php?id=support:java_troubleshooter" title="support:java_troubleshooter">Java Troubleshooting - Step 1</a> to see if your computer supports Java correctly.</p> </div> <h2><a name="a3"></a><a name="interpreting_the_ann">Interpreting The Annotations Page</a></h2> <div class="level2"> <p><img class="media" src="http://stockcharts.com/school/data/media/support/images/chartnotes/interpretchartnotes.gif" border="0" alt="Interpreting" title="Interpreting" /> <br /> <br /> The ChartNotes applet that appears will include all the graphics from your chart, along with vertical and horizontal toolbars that you will use to make your annotations.</p> <p>Through ChartNotes, you can add as many lines, arrows, and indicators that you want using the <a href="http://stockcharts.com/help/doku.php?id=support:chartnotes#the_drawing_toolbar" title="support:chartnotes ↵">Drawing Toolbar</a>.<br /> Annotations are easily distinguished and made more visually pleasing by editing the <a href="http://stockcharts.com/help/doku.php?id=support:chartnotes#color_line_width_and" title="support:chartnotes ↵">Color, Line Width, and Style</a>.<br /> The Chart can be wiped clean, saved, or reloaded to a previous save when you are ready to <a href="http://stockcharts.com/help/doku.php?id=support:chartnotes#finalizing_the_chart" title="support:chartnotes ↵">finalize the chart</a>.<br /> Also, dragging your cursor over the chart will display the Quote Data at that point.</p> </div> <h2><a name="a4"></a><a name="common_activities">Common Activities</a></h2> <div class="level2"> <p>The following list includes some of the most common activities you'll perform while working with the ChartNotes window:</p> </div> <h4><a name="a5"></a><a name="determining_price_an">Determining Price and Indicator Levels</a></h4> <div class="level4"> <p><img class="medialeft" src="http://stockcharts.com/school/data/media/support/images/chartnotes/pricelevel.gif" border="0" alt="Price Level" title="Price Level" /><br /> <br /> Move your mouse over the chart. The date and value for the cursor's current position will appear at the bottom of the chart. If your cursor moves over a price bar/candlestick, the full quote for that time period will also appear. (See <a href="http://stockcharts.com/help/doku.php?id=support:chartnotes#change_info_mode" title="support:chartnotes ↵">Info Modes</a>)</p> <hr /> </div> <h4><a name="a6"></a><a name="drawing_a_trend_line">Drawing a Trend Line</a></h4> <div class="level4"> <p><img class="medialeft" src="http://stockcharts.com/school/data/media/support/images/chartnotes/chartnotetrendline.gif" border="0" alt="Trendline" title="Trendline" /></p> <ol> <li class="level1"> <div class="li">Select the <strong>Trend Line Tool</strong> at the top of the screen. <img class="media" src="http://stockcharts.com/school/data/media/support/images/chartnotes/btn_line_tool_000.gif" border="0" alt="Line Tool" title="Line Tool" /> (See <a href="http://stockcharts.com/help/doku.php?id=support:chartnotes#the_drawing_toolbar" title="support:chartnotes ↵">Line</a>, <a href="http://stockcharts.com/help/doku.php?id=support:chartnotes#the_drawing_toolbar" title="support:chartnotes ↵">Horizontal</a>, or <a href="http://stockcharts.com/help/doku.php?id=support:chartnotes#the_drawing_toolbar" title="support:chartnotes ↵">Vertical</a> tool)</div> </li> <li class="level1"> <div class="li">Click and drag your mouse from the beginning to the end of the line.</div> </li> <li class="level1"> <div class="li">To change the line position, click the yellow squares ("handles") at either end.</div> </li> <li class="level1"> <div class="li">To shift the line's position without changing the angle, click on the center of the line.<br /></div> </li> </ol> <p>&nbsp;</p> <hr /> </div> <h4><a name="a7"></a><a name="creating_a_parallel_">Creating a Parallel Line</a></h4> <div class="level4"> <p><img class="medialeft" src="http://stockcharts.com/school/data/media/support/images/chartnotes/parallellines.gif" border="0" alt="Parallel Lines" title="Parallel Lines" /></p> <ol> <li class="level1"> <div class="li">Insert the trend line.</div> </li> <li class="level1"> <div class="li">Switch to the Selection Tool.</div> </li> <li class="level1"> <div class="li">Hold down the <strong>CTRL</strong> key, and click the center of the original line.</div> </li> <li class="level1"> <div class="li">Drag the new parallel line to the desired position on the chart.<br /></div> </li> </ol> <p>&nbsp;</p> <hr /> </div> <h4><a name="a8"></a><a name="using_a_callout_box">Using a Callout Box</a></h4> <div class="level4"> <p><img class="medialeft" src="http://stockcharts.com/school/data/media/support/images/chartnotes/calloutbox.gif" border="0" alt="Call Out" title="Call Out" /></p> <p><strong>To create a callout box:</strong></p> <ul> <li class="level1"> <div class="li">Select the <a href="http://stockcharts.com/help/doku.php?id=support:chartnotes#the_drawing_toolbar" title="support:chartnotes ↵">Callout Tool</a>.<img class="media" src="http://stockcharts.com/school/data/media/support/images/chartnotes/btn_callout_tool_000.gif" border="0" alt="Callout Button" title="Callout Button" /></div> </li> <li class="level1"> <div class="li">Move to the location within the chart near where you want to insert the callout.</div> </li> <li class="level1"> <div class="li">Type your text into the box that appears.</div> </li> <li class="level1"> <div class="li">Hold down the <strong>CTRL</strong> key while pressing the <strong>Enter</strong> key.<br /></div> </li> </ul> <p><br /> <strong>To resize the callout box:</strong></p> <ul> <li class="level1"> <div class="li">Click on the callout box, and drag the yellow handles until the desired size is shown.<br /></div> </li> </ul> <p><br /> <br /> <strong>To add callout pointers to the box:</strong></p> <ul> <li class="level1"> <div class="li">Press/hold down the <strong>CTRL</strong> key.</div> </li> <li class="level1"> <div class="li">Click in the center of the box.</div> </li> <li class="level1"> <div class="li">Drag the mouse to the location at which the callout pointer should end.</div> </li> </ul> <hr /> </div> <h4><a name="a9"></a><a name="deleting_single_all_">Deleting Single/All Annotations</a></h4> <div class="level4"> <p><img class="medialeft" src="http://stockcharts.com/school/data/media/support/images/chartnotes/deleteline.gif" border="0" alt="Delete Annotations" title="Delete Annotations" /> <strong></strong></p> <p><strong>To delete a single annotation:</strong></p> <ol> <li class="level1"> <div class="li">Move to the toolbar, and click the <a href="http://stockcharts.com/help/doku.php?id=support:chartnotes#the_drawing_toolbar" title="support:chartnotes ↵">Selection Tool</a>. <img class="media" src="http://stockcharts.com/school/data/media/support/images/chartnotes/btn_selection_tool.gif" border="0" alt="Selection Tool" title="Selection Tool" /></div> </li> <li class="level1"> <div class="li">Click on the annotation you want to delete so the yellow handles appear.</div> </li> <li class="level1"> <div class="li">Press the Delete key.<br /></div> </li> </ol> <p><strong>To delete all the annotations:</strong></p> <ul> <li class="level1"> <div class="li">Click the <img class="media" src="http://stockcharts.com/school/data/media/support/images/chartnotes/deleteall_000.gif" border="0" alt="Delete" title="Delete" /> button.</div> </li> </ul> <hr /> </div> <h4><a name="a10"></a><a name="adding_linear_regres">Adding Linear Regression (Raff) Channels</a></h4> <div class="level4"> <p><img class="medialeft" src="http://stockcharts.com/school/data/media/support/images/chartnotes/rafftool_000.gif" border="0" alt="Linear Regression" title="Linear Regression" /></p> <ol> <li class="level1"> <div class="li">Select the <a href="http://stockcharts.com/help/doku.php?id=support:chartnotes#the_drawing_toolbar" title="support:chartnotes ↵">Raff Regression Channel</a> Tool.<img class="media" src="http://stockcharts.com/school/data/media/support/images/chartnotes/btn_raff_regression_channel_tool_000.gif" border="0" alt="Raff Regressions" title="Raff Regressions" /></div> </li> <li class="level1"> <div class="li">Click on the beginning of a trend and drag your mouse to the end of the trend. The central line is the linear regression line. The upper and lower Raff channel lines are placed equidistant from the center line and parallel to it.<br /></div> </li> </ol> <p>&nbsp;</p> <hr /> </div> <h4><a name="a11"></a><a name="adding_cycle_lines">Adding Cycle Lines</a></h4> <div class="level4"> <p><img class="medialeft" src="http://stockcharts.com/school/data/media/support/images/chartnotes/cyclelines.gif" border="0" alt="Cycle Lines" title="Cycle Lines" /></p> <ol> <li class="level1"> <div class="li">Select the <a href="http://stockcharts.com/help/doku.php?id=support:chartnotes#the_drawing_toolbar" title="support:chartnotes ↵">Cycle Lines</a> Tool.<img class="media" src="http://stockcharts.com/school/data/media/support/images/chartnotes/btn_cycle_lines_tool_000.gif" border="0" alt="Cycle Lines" title="Cycle Lines" /></div> </li> <li class="level1"> <div class="li">Click on a significant peak or trough on the chart. As you drag your mouse to the next significant reversal, vertical lines appear at intervals equal to the distance you have dragged your mouse.<br /></div> </li> </ol> <p>&nbsp;</p> <hr /> </div> <h4><a name="a12"></a><a name="inserting_andrew_s_p">Inserting Andrew's Pitchfork Lines</a></h4> <div class="level4"> <p><img class="medialeft" src="http://stockcharts.com/school/data/media/support/images/chartnotes/andrewspitchfork.gif" border="0" alt="Andrews Pitchfork" title="Andrews Pitchfork" /></p> <ol> <li class="level1"> <div class="li">Select the <a href="http://stockcharts.com/help/doku.php?id=support:chartnotes#the_drawing_tool" title="support:chartnotes ↵">Andrew's Pitchfork</a> Tool.<img class="media" src="http://stockcharts.com/school/data/media/support/images/chartnotes/btn_andrews_pitchfork_tool_000.gif" border="0" alt="Andrews Pitchfork" title="Andrews Pitchfork" /></div> </li> <li class="level1"> <div class="li">Click once at&nbsp; the start of a significant price movement. Click a second time wherever the first major reversal in the price movement happens. Finally click wherever the primary trend resumed.<br /></div> </li> </ol> <p>&nbsp;</p> <hr /> </div> <h4><a name="a13"></a><a name="adding_fibonacci_ret">Adding Fibonacci Retracements</a></h4> <div class="level4"> <p><img class="medialeft" src="http://stockcharts.com/school/data/media/support/images/chartnotes/fiboretracements.gif" border="0" alt="Fibonacci Retracements" title="Fibonacci Retracements" /></p> <ol> <li class="level1"> <div class="li">Select the <a href="http://stockcharts.com/help/doku.php?id=support:chartnotes#the_drawing_toolbar" title="support:chartnotes ↵">Fibonacci Retracements</a> Tool.<img class="media" src="http://stockcharts.com/school/data/media/support/images/chartnotes/btn_fibonacci_replacements_tool_000.gif" border="0" alt="Fibonacci Tool" title="Fibonacci Tool" /></div> </li> <li class="level1"> <div class="li">Click your mouse (holding CTRL for additional retracement lines) at the start of a significant price move and drag it to the end of that price movement. "Fibo" lines will appear at key levels between the two corners you specified. Prices often find support or resistance at those levels after "retracing" part of the original move.<br /></div> </li> </ol> <p><br /> <br /></p> <hr /> </div> <h4><a name="a14"></a><a name="adding_arrows">Adding Arrows</a></h4> <div class="level4"> <p><img class="medialeft" src="http://stockcharts.com/school/data/media/support/images/chartnotes/arrow_000.gif" border="0" alt="Arrow" title="Arrow" /></p> <ol> <li class="level1"> <div class="li">Select the <a href="http://stockcharts.com/help/doku.php?id=support:chartnotes#the_drawing_toolbar" title="support:chartnotes ↵">Arrow Tool</a>. <img class="media" src="http://stockcharts.com/school/data/media/support/images/chartnotes/btn_arrow_tool_000.gif" border="0" alt="Arrow Tool" title="Arrow Tool" /></div> </li> <li class="level1"> <div class="li">Click and hold on the chart where you want the arrow to start.</div> </li> <li class="level1"> <div class="li">Drag the pointer in the opposite direction from where you want the arrow to point.<br /></div> </li> </ol> <p>&nbsp;</p> <hr /> </div> <h4><a name="a15"></a><a name="adding_shaded_areas">Adding Shaded Areas</a></h4> <div class="level4"> <p><img class="medialeft" src="http://stockcharts.com/school/data/media/support/images/chartnotes/shading_000.gif" border="0" alt="Shading" title="Shading" /></p> <ol> <li class="level1"> <div class="li">Select the <a href="http://stockcharts.com/help/doku.php?id=support:chartnotes#the_drawing_toolbar" title="support:chartnotes ↵">Box</a> or <a href="http://stockcharts.com/help/doku.php?id=support:chartnotes#the_drawing_toolbar" title="support:chartnotes ↵">Oval</a> tool. <img class="media" src="http://stockcharts.com/school/data/media/support/images/chartnotes/btn_box_tool_000.gif" border="0" alt="Box" title="Box" /><img class="media" src="http://stockcharts.com/school/data/media/support/images/chartnotes/btn_circle_tool_000.gif" border="0" alt="Circle" title="Circle" /></div> </li> <li class="level1"> <div class="li">Select the color that you want from the color palette.</div> </li> <li class="level1"> <div class="li">Hold down the <strong>Ctrl</strong> key on your keyboard.</div> </li> <li class="level1"> <div class="li">Click and drag on the chart to create the shaded area.<br /></div> </li> </ol> <p>&nbsp;</p> </div> <h2><a name="a16"></a><a name="the_drawing_toolbar">The Drawing Toolbar</a></h2> <div class="level2"> <p><img class="media" src="http://stockcharts.com/school/data/media/support/images/chartnotes/drawingtoolbar.gif" border="0" alt="Drawing Toolbar" title="Drawing Toolbar" /></p> <p>The <strong>Drawing Toolbar</strong> is located along the top of the ChartNotes window. It includes (from left to right) tools for modifying existing objects, creating trendlines, creating horizontal and vertical lines, creating rectangles and ovals, creating text and callout boxes, and creating arrows. Finally, there are five specialized line studies that can be drawn - Fibonacci retracements, cycle lines, Andrew's pitchforks, Linear Regression (Raff) channels, and Auto Support/Resistance lines. The Drawing Toolbar contains a series of icons. When you press the icon, the corresponding function can be performed.</p> <table class="inline" border="0"> <tbody> <tr> <td class="leftalign">Selection Tool<img class="media" src="http://stockcharts.com/school/data/media/support/images/chartnotes/btn_selection_tool.gif" border="0" alt="Selection Tool" title="Selection Tool" /></td> <td>- Allows you to select a specific annotation to which you can then make modifications.<br /> - Can be used to shift, stretch, or change the color of an object.<br /> - Double clicking a text box or callout box with the selection tool allows you to edit the text.<br /> <br /></td> </tr> <tr> <td class="leftalign">Line Tool<img class="media" src="http://stockcharts.com/school/data/media/support/images/chartnotes/btn_line_tool_000.gif" border="0" alt="Line Tool" title="Line Tool" /></td> <td class="leftalign">- Creates a line of any angle by clicking and dragging your mouse from the beginning to the end of the line.<br /> - Line will be drawn in the color that is selected.<br /> <br /></td> </tr> <tr> <td class="leftalign">Horizontal Line Tool<img class="media" src="http://stockcharts.com/school/data/media/support/images/chartnotes/btn_horz_line_tool_000.gif" border="0" alt="Horizontal Line Tool" title="Horizontal Line Tool" /></td> <td class="leftalign">- Creates a horizontal line that goes all the way across the chart.<br /> - Useful for marking support/resistance lines.<br /> <br /></td> </tr> <tr> <td class="leftalign">Vertical Line Tool<img class="media" src="http://stockcharts.com/school/data/media/support/images/chartnotes/btn_vertical_line_tool_000.gif" border="0" alt="Vertical Line Tool" title="Vertical Line Tool" /></td> <td class="leftalign">- Creates a vertical line from the bottom of the chart to the top.<br /> - Useful for connecting indicators or volume levels to price movements.<br /> <br /></td> </tr> <tr> <td class="leftalign">Box Tool<img class="media" src="http://stockcharts.com/school/data/media/support/images/chartnotes/btn_box_tool_000.gif" border="0" alt="Box Tool" title="Box Tool" /></td> <td class="leftalign">- Draws a box around a specific area within the chart.<br /> - Useful for identifying important price movements.<br /> - Press SHIFT after starting to draw in order to create a perfect square.<br /> <br /></td> </tr> <tr> <td class="leftalign">Oval Tool<img class="media" src="http://stockcharts.com/school/data/media/support/images/chartnotes/btn_circle_tool_000.gif" border="0" alt="Oval Tool" title="Oval Tool" /></td> <td class="leftalign">- Draws an oval around a specific area within the chart.<br /> - Useful for identifying important price movements.<br /> - Press SHIFT after starting to draw in order to create a perfect circle. <br /></td> </tr> <tr> <td class="leftalign">Text Tool<img class="media" src="http://stockcharts.com/school/data/media/support/images/chartnotes/btn_text_tool_000.gif" border="0" alt="Text Tool" title="Text Tool" /></td> <td class="leftalign">- Opens a free-form text box into which you can enter text.<br /> - Use this to make notes/comments or add titles to charts.<br /> <br /></td> </tr> <tr> <td class="leftalign">Callout Tool<img class="media" src="http://stockcharts.com/school/data/media/support/images/chartnotes/btn_callout_tool_000.gif" border="0" alt="Callout Tool" title="Callout Tool" /></td> <td class="leftalign">- Opens a free-form box into which you can enter text or numbers.<br /> - More than one callout "pointers" can be inserted into a chart.<br /> - A great way to annotate specific movements or trends.<br /> <br /></td> </tr> <tr> <td class="leftalign">Arrow Tool<img class="media" src="http://stockcharts.com/school/data/media/support/images/chartnotes/btn_arrow_tool_000.gif" border="0" alt="Arrow Tool" title="Arrow Tool" /></td> <td class="leftalign">- Inserts an arrow at selected points in the chart.<br /> - Can point up, down, left or right.<br /> <br /></td> </tr> <tr> <td class="leftalign">Fibonacci Retracements Tool<img class="media" src="http://stockcharts.com/school/data/media/support/images/chartnotes/btn_fibonacci_replacements_tool_000.gif" border="0" alt="Fibonacci Tool" title="Fibonacci Tool" /></td> <td class="leftalign">- Creates five lines that identify price levels and retracement percentages.<br /> - Identifies the beginning and end of a significant price move.<br /> <br /></td> </tr> <tr> <td class="leftalign">Cycle Lines Tool<img class="media" src="http://stockcharts.com/school/data/media/support/images/chartnotes/btn_cycle_lines_tool_000.gif" border="0" alt="Cycle Lines Tool" title="Cycle Lines Tool" /></td> <td class="leftalign">- Creates multiple vertical lines across the chart.<br /> - Provide assistance in spotting cyclical price movements.<br /> <br /></td> </tr> <tr> <td class="leftalign">Andrew's Pitchfork Tool<img class="media" src="http://stockcharts.com/school/data/media/support/images/chartnotes/btn_andrews_pitchfork_tool_000.gif" border="0" alt="Andrews Pitchfork" title="Andrews Pitchfork" /></td> <td class="leftalign">- Creates one line that splits into three in the form of a pitchfork.<br /> - Identifies where prices should go as long as the primary trend remains intact.<br /> <br /></td> </tr> <tr> <td class="leftalign">Raff Regression Channel Tool<img class="media" src="http://stockcharts.com/school/data/media/support/images/chartnotes/btn_raff_regression_channel_tool_000.gif" border="0" alt="Raff Regression Tool" title="Raff Regression Tool" /></td> <td class="leftalign">- Creates three parallel lines along the price line.<br /> - Identifies the highest high or lowest low value within a specified date range.<br /> <br /></td> </tr> <tr> <td class="leftalign">Auto Support-Resistance Tool<img class="media" src="http://stockcharts.com/school/data/media/support/images/chartnotes/btn_auto_support_resistence_tool_000.gif" border="0" alt="Support Resistance Tool" title="Support Resistance Tool" /></td> <td class="leftalign">- Creates a horizontal line that is green when price is above it, and red when price is below.<br /> - Identifies where price is in relationship to the line, showing how a support line can often turn into a resistance line and vice-versa.<br /> <br /></td> </tr> <tr> <td class="leftalign">Expand Left/Right<img class="media" src="http://stockcharts.com/school/data/media/support/images/chartnotes/leftright_000.gif" border="0" alt="Expand Left/Right" title="Expand Left/Right" /></td> <td class="leftalign">- The Chart Sizing buttons lets you add more room for commentary on either side of the chart.<br /> - Hold Ctrl while clicking on them to shrink instead of expand.<br /> <br /></td> </tr> <tr> <td class="leftalign">Undo<img class="media" src="http://stockcharts.com/school/data/media/support/images/chartnotes/btn_undo_000.gif" border="0" alt="Undo Button" title="Undo Button" /></td> <td class="leftalign">- Removes the last edit/annotation.<br /> - Multiple undo's can be executed.<br /> <br /></td> </tr> <tr> <td class="leftalign">Change Info Mode<img class="media" src="http://stockcharts.com/school/data/media/support/images/chartnotes/btn_change_info_mode_000.gif" border="0" alt="Change Info Mode" title="Change Info Mode" /></td> <td class="leftalign">There are four different cursor choices for displaying quote data:<br /> 1. Standard Cursor : Displays quote data at the bottom of the chart.<br /> 2. Crosshairs : Turns the mouse pointer into crosshairs. As you move over a point, the coordinates are shown below the chart.<br /> 3. Data Popup : As you move the mouse pointer over a specific point, the details for that point are shown in a popup box.<br /> 4. Chart Magnifier : Turns the mouse pointer into a square that contains a magnified view.<br /></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <h2><a name="a17"></a><a name="color_line_width_and">Color, Line Width, And Style Toolbars</a></h2> <div class="level2"> <p>While working with the drawing toolbar, you have the following other additional options located along the left side of the ChartNotes page:</p> <p><strong>Color Toolbar:</strong></p> <table class="inline" border="0"> <tbody> <tr> <td class="leftalign"><img class="medialeft" src="http://stockcharts.com/school/data/media/support/images/chartnotes/color_bar_000.gif" border="0" alt="Color Bar" title="Color Bar" /></td> <td class="leftalign">You can change the color of any line or box to one of 16 different colors. Simply click on the desired color, and draw your object. Or, select an object you've already drawn, and then click a color on the toolbar.</td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <p><strong>Line Width Toolbar:</strong></p> <table class="inline" border="0"> <tbody> <tr> <td class="leftalign"><img class="medialeft" src="http://stockcharts.com/school/data/media/support/images/chartnotes/line_style_000.gif" border="0" alt="Line Style" title="Line Style" /></td> <td class="leftalign">You can also change the look of any line by selecting one of three line widths, or the dashed line option.</td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <p><strong>Style Toolbar:</strong></p> <table class="inline" border="0"> <tbody> <tr> <td class="leftalign"><img class="media" src="http://stockcharts.com/school/data/media/support/images/chartnotes/text_tool_style_bar_000.gif" border="0" alt="Text Style" title="Text Style" /></td> <td class="leftalign">After selecting a text or callout box, font style choices appear to make the text larger, smaller, or bold.</td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <h2><a name="a18"></a><a name="hotkeys">Hotkeys</a></h2> <div class="level2"> <p>There are certain hotkeys supported by ChartNotes to make editing your charts easier. When a '+' occurs between two keys this means that the key on the left should be pressed and held, then the key on the right should be pressed. Unless specified 'click' means pressing either the left or right mouse button. (Note: Mac uses may need to use the Command key instead of the CTRL key.)</p> <table class="inline" border="0"> <tbody> <tr> <th> Key </th><th> Effect </th> </tr> <tr> <td>TAB</td> <td>Cycles through the annotation items on your chart.</td> </tr> <tr> <td>SHIFT</td> <td>Changes current tool to <strong>Selection Tool</strong> until release of SHIFT button.</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Arrow keys</td> <td>Move currently selected item in direction of arrow key.</td> </tr> <tr> <td>CTRL + z</td> <td>Undo last action.</td> </tr> <tr> <td>CTRL + d</td> <td>Duplicate currently selected item (except text-based items).</td> </tr> <tr> <td>CTRL + create new <strong>Box</strong> or <strong>Oval</strong></td> <td>Create filled <strong>Box</strong> or <strong>Oval</strong>.</td> </tr> <tr> <td>CTRL + create new <strong>Fibonacci Retracements</strong></td> <td>Create <strong>Fibonacci Retracements</strong> with additional two retracement lines.</td> </tr> <tr> <td>CTRL + click <strong>Box</strong> or <strong>Oval</strong></td> <td>Toggle fill status.</td> </tr> <tr> <td>CTRL + click <strong>Fibonacci Retracements</strong></td> <td>Toggle display of price data.</td> </tr> <tr> <td>CTRL + click <strong>Line</strong></td> <td>Duplicate <strong>Line</strong>.</td> </tr> <tr> <td>SHIFT after starting to drag a <strong>Box</strong> or <strong>Oval</strong> handle</td> <td>Create a perfect circle or square.</td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <h2><a name="a19"></a><a name="finalizing_the_chart">Finalizing The Chart</a></h2> <p>Whether you want to start clean or save your chart, these tools are here for when you have finished with your ChartNotes.</p> <p><img class="media" src="http://stockcharts.com/school/data/media/support/images/chartnotes/delete_reload_upload_000.gif" border="0" alt="DeleteReloadUpload" title="DeleteReloadUpload" /></p> <ul> <li class="level1"> <div class="li"><strong>Delete All:</strong> Restores the chart to its original condition, erasing all annotations currently shown. When you click the button, a confirmation window displays. <span><strong>WARNING: This process cannot be undone!</strong></span></div> </li> <li class="level1"> <div class="li"><strong>Reload:</strong> Reloads the chart using the last uploaded version (if any); e.g., if you have made a series of annotations that you are not happy with, instead of deleting each item one-by-one, click this button to erase the annotations and start with a "clean slate" (per se). Before your annotations are removed, a confirmation window displays.</div> </li> <li class="level1"> <div class="li"><strong>Upload:</strong> Allows <a href="http://stockcharts.com/corp/extra.html" title="http://stockcharts.com/corp/extra.html">Extra!</a> users to store their "masterpieces" on StockCharts.com for later review and sharing with others. When uploading your file, you specify a name, and whether or not it should be a static image or a live, annotated chart.</div> </li> </ul> <p><br /> <img class="media" src="http://stockcharts.com/school/data/media/support/images/chartnotes/detach_000.gif" border="0" alt="Detach" title="Detach" /></p> <ul> <li class="level1"> <div class="li"><strong>Detach:</strong> Located in the bottom right, this button allows you to resize the ChartNotes tool itself. This can be very useful after using the Chart Sizing buttons.<br /></div> </li> </ul> <p><br /> <strong><em class="u">Saving/Sharing Annotated Charts</em></strong></p> <p><strong>Free and Basic users:</strong> You can save annotated charts to your own hard disk by taking a "screenshot".&nbsp;</p> <p><strong>Extra users:</strong> Extra! users can save annotated charts in any of their Favorites lists. You have the option to either save a "live" annotated chart (one that updates over time) in one of your regular lists, or to save the chart as a static image (a chart that does not update over time) in your "SnapShot" list.</p> <p>Simply press the <img class="media" src="http://stockcharts.com/school/data/media/support/images/chartnotes/uploadbutton_000.gif" border="0" alt="Upload" title="Upload" /> button in the upper right corner of the ChartNotes window to store your annotations. You will be prompted to select where you wish to save the chart.</p> <p><strong>Note:</strong> If you are annotating a chart you selected directly from one of your Favorites lists, the chart with annotations is automatically saved back into the original list, and overwrites the original chart.</p> <h1><a name="using_chartnotes">Using ChartNotes</a></h1> <h2><a name="a1"></a><a name="what_is_chartnotes">What is the ChartNotes Annotation Tool?</a></h2> <div class="level2"> <p><strong>ChartNotes<sup>TM</sup></strong> is StockCharts.com's interactive chart annotation tool. This Java applet allows you to add trendlines, text, arrows, Fibonacci retracement lines, and much more to any bar, line, or candlestick chart. It also allows you to examine all of the data on the chart just by moving your mouse. ChartNotes combines these options into one streamlined layout that gives you great control over your chart.</p> <p>To see some examples of ChartNotes at work, visit the <a href="http://stockcharts.com/def/servlet/Favorites.CServlet?obj=public&amp;cmd=show&amp;disp=RED" title="http://stockcharts.com/def/servlet/Favorites.CServlet?obj=public&amp;cmd=show&amp;disp=RED">Public Charts List</a>. It shows what other users are doing with the ChartNotes tool, and will give you some great ideas for your own charts.</p> </div> <h2><a name="a2"></a><a name="adding_annotations">Adding Annotations</a></h2> <div class="level2"> <p>Adding annotations to your chart is as simple as clicking a button:</p> <p><strong>Step 1:</strong> <a href="http://stockcharts.com/school/doku.php?id=support:sharpcharts" title="support:sharpcharts">Create the SharpChart</a> for which you want to annotate.<br /> <em>Make sure the chart is exactly what you want to use before starting ChartNotes!</em><br /> Once you start annotating a chart, you cannot change any of its "SharpCharts" attributes (size, indicators, etc.).</p> <hr /> <p><strong>Step 2:</strong> When the SharpChart is completely ready, click the <strong>Annotate</strong> link on the action bar, immediately beneath the chart.</p> <p><img class="media" src="http://stockcharts.com/school/data/media/support/images/chartnotes/ibm_chartnotes.png" border="0" /></p> <p>A new window displays, and some onscreen processing takes place.</p> <p><img title="Loading Image" class="media" src="http://stockcharts.com/school/data/media/support/images/chartnotes/loading_chart_image.gif" border="0" alt="Loading Image" /></p> <hr /> <p><br /> <strong>Step 3:</strong> Once processing is complete, you can begin annotating your SharpChart inside of the ChartNotes applet!</p> <p><img title="ChartNotes" class="media" src="http://stockcharts.com/school/data/media/support/images/chartnotes/blankchartnotes.gif" border="0" alt="ChartNotes" /></p> <p><strong>Note:</strong> If you don't see the chart appear in a reasonable amount of time, try using our <a href="http://stockcharts.com/school/doku.php?id=support:java_troubleshooter" title="support:java_troubleshooter">Java Troubleshooting - Step 1</a> to see if your computer supports Java correctly.</p> </div> <h2><a name="a3"></a><a name="interpreting_the_ann">Interpreting The Annotations Page</a></h2> <div class="level2"> <p><img title="Interpreting" class="media" src="http://stockcharts.com/school/data/media/support/images/chartnotes/interpretchartnotes.gif" border="0" alt="Interpreting" /> <br /> <br /> The ChartNotes applet that appears will include all the graphics from your chart, along with vertical and horizontal toolbars that you will use to make your annotations.</p> <p>Through ChartNotes, you can add as many lines, arrows, and indicators that you want using the <a href="http://stockcharts.com/help/doku.php?id=support:chartnotes#the_drawing_toolbar" title="support:chartnotes ↵">Drawing Toolbar</a>.<br /> Annotations are easily distinguished and made more visually pleasing by editing the <a href="http://stockcharts.com/help/doku.php?id=support:chartnotes#color_line_width_and" title="support:chartnotes ↵">Color, Line Width, and Style</a>.<br /> The Chart can be wiped clean, saved, or reloaded to a previous save when you are ready to <a href="http://stockcharts.com/help/doku.php?id=support:chartnotes#finalizing_the_chart" title="support:chartnotes ↵">finalize the chart</a>.<br /> Also, dragging your cursor over the chart will display the Quote Data at that point.</p> </div> <h2><a name="a4"></a><a name="common_activities">Common Activities</a></h2> <div class="level2"> <p>The following list includes some of the most common activities you'll perform while working with the ChartNotes window:</p> </div> <h4><a name="a5"></a><a name="determining_price_an">Determining Price and Indicator Levels</a></h4> <div class="level4"> <p><img title="Price Level" class="medialeft" src="http://stockcharts.com/school/data/media/support/images/chartnotes/pricelevel.gif" border="0" alt="Price Level" /><br /> <br /> Move your mouse over the chart. The date and value for the cursor's current position will appear at the bottom of the chart. If your cursor moves over a price bar/candlestick, the full quote for that time period will also appear. (See <a href="http://stockcharts.com/help/doku.php?id=support:chartnotes#change_info_mode" title="support:chartnotes ↵">Info Modes</a>)</p> <hr /> </div> <h4><a name="a6"></a><a name="drawing_a_trend_line">Drawing a Trend Line</a></h4> <div class="level4"> <p><img title="Trendline" class="medialeft" src="http://stockcharts.com/school/data/media/support/images/chartnotes/chartnotetrendline.gif" border="0" alt="Trendline" /></p> <ol> <li class="level1"> <div class="li">Select the <strong>Trend Line Tool</strong> at the top of the screen. <img title="Line Tool" class="media" src="http://stockcharts.com/school/data/media/support/images/chartnotes/btn_line_tool_000.gif" border="0" alt="Line Tool" /> (See <a href="http://stockcharts.com/help/doku.php?id=support:chartnotes#the_drawing_toolbar" title="support:chartnotes ↵">Line</a>, <a href="http://stockcharts.com/help/doku.php?id=support:chartnotes#the_drawing_toolbar" title="support:chartnotes ↵">Horizontal</a>, or <a href="http://stockcharts.com/help/doku.php?id=support:chartnotes#the_drawing_toolbar" title="support:chartnotes ↵">Vertical</a> tool)</div> </li> <li class="level1"> <div class="li">Click and drag your mouse from the beginning to the end of the line.</div> </li> <li class="level1"> <div class="li">To change the line position, click the yellow squares ("handles") at either end.</div> </li> <li class="level1"> <div class="li">To shift the line's position without changing the angle, click on the center of the line.<br /></div> </li> </ol> <p>&nbsp;</p> <hr /> </div> <h4><a name="a7"></a><a name="creating_a_parallel_">Creating a Parallel Line</a></h4> <div class="level4"> <p><img title="Parallel Lines" class="medialeft" src="http://stockcharts.com/school/data/media/support/images/chartnotes/parallellines.gif" border="0" alt="Parallel Lines" /></p> <ol> <li class="level1"> <div class="li">Insert the trend line.</div> </li> <li class="level1"> <div class="li">Switch to the Selection Tool.</div> </li> <li class="level1"> <div class="li">Hold down the <strong>CTRL</strong> key, and click the center of the original line.</div> </li> <li class="level1"> <div class="li">Drag the new parallel line to the desired position on the chart.<br /></div> </li> </ol> <p>&nbsp;</p> <hr /> </div> <h4><a name="a8"></a><a name="using_a_callout_box">Using a Callout Box</a></h4> <div class="level4"> <p><img title="Call Out" class="medialeft" src="http://stockcharts.com/school/data/media/support/images/chartnotes/calloutbox.gif" border="0" alt="Call Out" /></p> <p><strong>To create a callout box:</strong></p> <ul> <li class="level1"> <div class="li">Select the <a href="http://stockcharts.com/help/doku.php?id=support:chartnotes#the_drawing_toolbar" title="support:chartnotes ↵">Callout Tool</a>.<img title="Callout Button" class="media" src="http://stockcharts.com/school/data/media/support/images/chartnotes/btn_callout_tool_000.gif" border="0" alt="Callout Button" /></div> </li> <li class="level1"> <div class="li">Move to the location within the chart near where you want to insert the callout.</div> </li> <li class="level1"> <div class="li">Type your text into the box that appears.</div> </li> <li class="level1"> <div class="li">Hold down the <strong>CTRL</strong> key while pressing the <strong>Enter</strong> key.<br /></div> </li> </ul> <p><br /> <strong>To resize the callout box:</strong></p> <ul> <li class="level1"> <div class="li">Click on the callout box, and drag the yellow handles until the desired size is shown.<br /></div> </li> </ul> <p><br /> <br /> <strong>To add callout pointers to the box:</strong></p> <ul> <li class="level1"> <div class="li">Press/hold down the <strong>CTRL</strong> key.</div> </li> <li class="level1"> <div class="li">Click in the center of the box.</div> </li> <li class="level1"> <div class="li">Drag the mouse to the location at which the callout pointer should end.</div> </li> </ul> <hr /> </div> <h4><a name="a9"></a><a name="deleting_single_all_">Deleting Single/All Annotations</a></h4> <div class="level4"> <p><img title="Delete Annotations" class="medialeft" src="http://stockcharts.com/school/data/media/support/images/chartnotes/deleteline.gif" border="0" alt="Delete Annotations" /> <strong></strong></p> <p><strong>To delete a single annotation:</strong></p> <ol> <li class="level1"> <div class="li">Move to the toolbar, and click the <a href="http://stockcharts.com/help/doku.php?id=support:chartnotes#the_drawing_toolbar" title="support:chartnotes ↵">Selection Tool</a>. <img title="Selection Tool" class="media" src="http://stockcharts.com/school/data/media/support/images/chartnotes/btn_selection_tool.gif" border="0" alt="Selection Tool" /></div> </li> <li class="level1"> <div class="li">Click on the annotation you want to delete so the yellow handles appear.</div> </li> <li class="level1"> <div class="li">Press the Delete key.<br /></div> </li> </ol> <p><strong>To delete all the annotations:</strong></p> <ul> <li class="level1"> <div class="li">Click the <img title="Delete" class="media" src="http://stockcharts.com/school/data/media/support/images/chartnotes/deleteall_000.gif" border="0" alt="Delete" /> button.</div> </li> </ul> <hr /> </div> <h4><a name="a10"></a><a name="adding_linear_regres">Adding Linear Regression (Raff) Channels</a></h4> <div class="level4"> <p><img title="Linear Regression" class="medialeft" src="http://stockcharts.com/school/data/media/support/images/chartnotes/rafftool_000.gif" border="0" alt="Linear Regression" /></p> <ol> <li class="level1"> <div class="li">Select the <a href="http://stockcharts.com/help/doku.php?id=support:chartnotes#the_drawing_toolbar" title="support:chartnotes ↵">Raff Regression Channel</a> Tool.<img title="Raff Regressions" class="media" src="http://stockcharts.com/school/data/media/support/images/chartnotes/btn_raff_regression_channel_tool_000.gif" border="0" alt="Raff Regressions" /></div> </li> <li class="level1"> <div class="li">Click on the beginning of a trend and drag your mouse to the end of the trend. The central line is the linear regression line. The upper and lower Raff channel lines are placed equidistant from the center line and parallel to it.<br /></div> </li> </ol> <p>&nbsp;</p> <hr /> </div> <h4><a name="a11"></a><a name="adding_cycle_lines">Adding Cycle Lines</a></h4> <div class="level4"> <p><img title="Cycle Lines" class="medialeft" src="http://stockcharts.com/school/data/media/support/images/chartnotes/cyclelines.gif" border="0" alt="Cycle Lines" /></p> <ol> <li class="level1"> <div class="li">Select the <a href="http://stockcharts.com/help/doku.php?id=support:chartnotes#the_drawing_toolbar" title="support:chartnotes ↵">Cycle Lines</a> Tool.<img title="Cycle Lines" class="media" src="http://stockcharts.com/school/data/media/support/images/chartnotes/btn_cycle_lines_tool_000.gif" border="0" alt="Cycle Lines" /></div> </li> <li class="level1"> <div class="li">Click on a significant peak or trough on the chart. As you drag your mouse to the next significant reversal, vertical lines appear at intervals equal to the distance you have dragged your mouse.<br /></div> </li> </ol> <p>&nbsp;</p> <hr /> </div> <h4><a name="a12"></a><a name="inserting_andrew_s_p">Inserting Andrew's Pitchfork Lines</a></h4> <div class="level4"> <p><img title="Andrews Pitchfork" class="medialeft" src="http://stockcharts.com/school/data/media/support/images/chartnotes/andrewspitchfork.gif" border="0" alt="Andrews Pitchfork" /></p> <ol> <li class="level1"> <div class="li">Select the <a href="http://stockcharts.com/help/doku.php?id=support:chartnotes#the_drawing_tool" title="support:chartnotes ↵">Andrew's Pitchfork</a> Tool.<img title="Andrews Pitchfork" class="media" src="http://stockcharts.com/school/data/media/support/images/chartnotes/btn_andrews_pitchfork_tool_000.gif" border="0" alt="Andrews Pitchfork" /></div> </li> <li class="level1"> <div class="li">Click once at&nbsp; the start of a significant price movement. Click a second time wherever the first major reversal in the price movement happens. Finally click wherever the primary trend resumed.<br /></div> </li> </ol> <p>&nbsp;</p> <hr /> </div> <h4><a name="a13"></a><a name="adding_fibonacci_ret">Adding Fibonacci Retracements</a></h4> <div class="level4"> <p><img title="Fibonacci Retracements" class="medialeft" src="http://stockcharts.com/school/data/media/support/images/chartnotes/fiboretracements.gif" border="0" alt="Fibonacci Retracements" /></p> <ol> <li class="level1"> <div class="li">Select the <a href="http://stockcharts.com/help/doku.php?id=support:chartnotes#the_drawing_toolbar" title="support:chartnotes ↵">Fibonacci Retracements</a> Tool.<img title="Fibonacci Tool" class="media" src="http://stockcharts.com/school/data/media/support/images/chartnotes/btn_fibonacci_replacements_tool_000.gif" border="0" alt="Fibonacci Tool" /></div> </li> <li class="level1"> <div class="li">Click your mouse (holding CTRL for additional retracement lines) at the start of a significant price move and drag it to the end of that price movement. "Fibo" lines will appear at key levels between the two corners you specified. Prices often find support or resistance at those levels after "retracing" part of the original move.<br /></div> </li> </ol> <p><br /> <br /></p> <hr /> </div> <h4><a name="a14"></a><a name="adding_arrows">Adding Arrows</a></h4> <div class="level4"> <p><img title="Arrow" class="medialeft" src="http://stockcharts.com/school/data/media/support/images/chartnotes/arrow_000.gif" border="0" alt="Arrow" /></p> <ol> <li class="level1"> <div class="li">Select the <a href="http://stockcharts.com/help/doku.php?id=support:chartnotes#the_drawing_toolbar" title="support:chartnotes ↵">Arrow Tool</a>. <img title="Arrow Tool" class="media" src="http://stockcharts.com/school/data/media/support/images/chartnotes/btn_arrow_tool_000.gif" border="0" alt="Arrow Tool" /></div> </li> <li class="level1"> <div class="li">Click and hold on the chart where you want the arrow to start.</div> </li> <li class="level1"> <div class="li">Drag the pointer in the opposite direction from where you want the arrow to point.<br /></div> </li> </ol> <p>&nbsp;</p> <hr /> </div> <h4><a name="a15"></a><a name="adding_shaded_areas">Adding Shaded Areas</a></h4> <div class="level4"> <p><img title="Shading" class="medialeft" src="http://stockcharts.com/school/data/media/support/images/chartnotes/shading_000.gif" border="0" alt="Shading" /></p> <ol> <li class="level1"> <div class="li">Select the <a href="http://stockcharts.com/help/doku.php?id=support:chartnotes#the_drawing_toolbar" title="support:chartnotes ↵">Box</a> or <a href="http://stockcharts.com/help/doku.php?id=support:chartnotes#the_drawing_toolbar" title="support:chartnotes ↵">Oval</a> tool. <img title="Box" class="media" src="http://stockcharts.com/school/data/media/support/images/chartnotes/btn_box_tool_000.gif" border="0" alt="Box" /><img title="Circle" class="media" src="http://stockcharts.com/school/data/media/support/images/chartnotes/btn_circle_tool_000.gif" border="0" alt="Circle" /></div> </li> <li class="level1"> <div class="li">Select the color that you want from the color palette.</div> </li> <li class="level1"> <div class="li">Hold down the <strong>Ctrl</strong> key on your keyboard.</div> </li> <li class="level1"> <div class="li">Click and drag on the chart to create the shaded area.<br /></div> </li> </ol> <p>&nbsp;</p> </div> <h2><a name="a16"></a><a name="the_drawing_toolbar">The Drawing Toolbar</a></h2> <div class="level2"> <p><img title="Drawing Toolbar" class="media" src="http://stockcharts.com/school/data/media/support/images/chartnotes/drawingtoolbar.gif" border="0" alt="Drawing Toolbar" /></p> <p>The <strong>Drawing Toolbar</strong> is located along the top of the ChartNotes window. It includes (from left to right) tools for modifying existing objects, creating trendlines, creating horizontal and vertical lines, creating rectangles and ovals, creating text and callout boxes, and creating arrows. Finally, there are five specialized line studies that can be drawn - Fibonacci retracements, cycle lines, Andrew's pitchforks, Linear Regression (Raff) channels, and Auto Support/Resistance lines. The Drawing Toolbar contains a series of icons. When you press the icon, the corresponding function can be performed.</p> <table class="inline" border="0"> <tbody> <tr> <td class="leftalign">Selection Tool<img title="Selection Tool" class="media" src="http://stockcharts.com/school/data/media/support/images/chartnotes/btn_selection_tool.gif" border="0" alt="Selection Tool" /></td> <td>- Allows you to select a specific annotation to which you can then make modifications.<br /> - Can be used to shift, stretch, or change the color of an object.<br /> - Double clicking a text box or callout box with the selection tool allows you to edit the text.<br /> <br /></td> </tr> <tr> <td class="leftalign">Line Tool<img title="Line Tool" class="media" src="http://stockcharts.com/school/data/media/support/images/chartnotes/btn_line_tool_000.gif" border="0" alt="Line Tool" /></td> <td class="leftalign">- Creates a line of any angle by clicking and dragging your mouse from the beginning to the end of the line.<br /> - Line will be drawn in the color that is selected.<br /> <br /></td> </tr> <tr> <td class="leftalign">Horizontal Line Tool<img title="Horizontal Line Tool" class="media" src="http://stockcharts.com/school/data/media/support/images/chartnotes/btn_horz_line_tool_000.gif" border="0" alt="Horizontal Line Tool" /></td> <td class="leftalign">- Creates a horizontal line that goes all the way across the chart.<br /> - Useful for marking support/resistance lines.<br /> <br /></td> </tr> <tr> <td class="leftalign">Vertical Line Tool<img title="Vertical Line Tool" class="media" src="http://stockcharts.com/school/data/media/support/images/chartnotes/btn_vertical_line_tool_000.gif" border="0" alt="Vertical Line Tool" /></td> <td class="leftalign">- Creates a vertical line from the bottom of the chart to the top.<br /> - Useful for connecting indicators or volume levels to price movements.<br /> <br /></td> </tr> <tr> <td class="leftalign">Box Tool<img title="Box Tool" class="media" src="http://stockcharts.com/school/data/media/support/images/chartnotes/btn_box_tool_000.gif" border="0" alt="Box Tool" /></td> <td class="leftalign">- Draws a box around a specific area within the chart.<br /> - Useful for identifying important price movements.<br /> - Press SHIFT after starting to draw in order to create a perfect square.<br /> <br /></td> </tr> <tr> <td class="leftalign">Oval Tool<img title="Oval Tool" class="media" src="http://stockcharts.com/school/data/media/support/images/chartnotes/btn_circle_tool_000.gif" border="0" alt="Oval Tool" /></td> <td class="leftalign">- Draws an oval around a specific area within the chart.<br /> - Useful for identifying important price movements.<br /> - Press SHIFT after starting to draw in order to create a perfect circle. <br /></td> </tr> <tr> <td class="leftalign">Text Tool<img title="Text Tool" class="media" src="http://stockcharts.com/school/data/media/support/images/chartnotes/btn_text_tool_000.gif" border="0" alt="Text Tool" /></td> <td class="leftalign">- Opens a free-form text box into which you can enter text.<br /> - Use this to make notes/comments or add titles to charts.<br /> <br /></td> </tr> <tr> <td class="leftalign">Callout Tool<img title="Callout Tool" class="media" src="http://stockcharts.com/school/data/media/support/images/chartnotes/btn_callout_tool_000.gif" border="0" alt="Callout Tool" /></td> <td class="leftalign">- Opens a free-form box into which you can enter text or numbers.<br /> - More than one callout "pointers" can be inserted into a chart.<br /> - A great way to annotate specific movements or trends.<br /> <br /></td> </tr> <tr> <td class="leftalign">Arrow Tool<img title="Arrow Tool" class="media" src="http://stockcharts.com/school/data/media/support/images/chartnotes/btn_arrow_tool_000.gif" border="0" alt="Arrow Tool" /></td> <td class="leftalign">- Inserts an arrow at selected points in the chart.<br /> - Can point up, down, left or right.<br /> <br /></td> </tr> <tr> <td class="leftalign">Fibonacci Retracements Tool<img title="Fibonacci Tool" class="media" src="http://stockcharts.com/school/data/media/support/images/chartnotes/btn_fibonacci_replacements_tool_000.gif" border="0" alt="Fibonacci Tool" /></td> <td class="leftalign">- Creates five lines that identify price levels and retracement percentages.<br /> - Identifies the beginning and end of a significant price move.<br /> <br /></td> </tr> <tr> <td class="leftalign">Cycle Lines Tool<img title="Cycle Lines Tool" class="media" src="http://stockcharts.com/school/data/media/support/images/chartnotes/btn_cycle_lines_tool_000.gif" border="0" alt="Cycle Lines Tool" /></td> <td class="leftalign">- Creates multiple vertical lines across the chart.<br /> - Provide assistance in spotting cyclical price movements.<br /> <br /></td> </tr> <tr> <td class="leftalign">Andrew's Pitchfork Tool<img title="Andrews Pitchfork" class="media" src="http://stockcharts.com/school/data/media/support/images/chartnotes/btn_andrews_pitchfork_tool_000.gif" border="0" alt="Andrews Pitchfork" /></td> <td class="leftalign">- Creates one line that splits into three in the form of a pitchfork.<br /> - Identifies where prices should go as long as the primary trend remains intact.<br /> <br /></td> </tr> <tr> <td class="leftalign">Raff Regression Channel Tool<img title="Raff Regression Tool" class="media" src="http://stockcharts.com/school/data/media/support/images/chartnotes/btn_raff_regression_channel_tool_000.gif" border="0" alt="Raff Regression Tool" /></td> <td class="leftalign">- Creates three parallel lines along the price line.<br /> - Identifies the highest high or lowest low value within a specified date range.<br /> <br /></td> </tr> <tr> <td class="leftalign">Auto Support-Resistance Tool<img title="Support Resistance Tool" class="media" src="http://stockcharts.com/school/data/media/support/images/chartnotes/btn_auto_support_resistence_tool_000.gif" border="0" alt="Support Resistance Tool" /></td> <td class="leftalign">- Creates a horizontal line that is green when price is above it, and red when price is below.<br /> - Identifies where price is in relationship to the line, showing how a support line can often turn into a resistance line and vice-versa.<br /> <br /></td> </tr> <tr> <td class="leftalign">Expand Left/Right<img title="Expand Left/Right" class="media" src="http://stockcharts.com/school/data/media/support/images/chartnotes/leftright_000.gif" border="0" alt="Expand Left/Right" /></td> <td class="leftalign">- The Chart Sizing buttons lets you add more room for commentary on either side of the chart.<br /> - Hold Ctrl while clicking on them to shrink instead of expand.<br /> <br /></td> </tr> <tr> <td class="leftalign">Undo<img title="Undo Button" class="media" src="http://stockcharts.com/school/data/media/support/images/chartnotes/btn_undo_000.gif" border="0" alt="Undo Button" /></td> <td class="leftalign">- Removes the last edit/annotation.<br /> - Multiple undo's can be executed.<br /> <br /></td> </tr> <tr> <td class="leftalign">Change Info Mode<img title="Change Info Mode" class="media" src="http://stockcharts.com/school/data/media/support/images/chartnotes/btn_change_info_mode_000.gif" border="0" alt="Change Info Mode" /></td> <td class="leftalign">There are four different cursor choices for displaying quote data:<br /> 1. Standard Cursor : Displays quote data at the bottom of the chart.<br /> 2. Crosshairs : Turns the mouse pointer into crosshairs. As you move over a point, the coordinates are shown below the chart.<br /> 3. Data Popup : As you move the mouse pointer over a specific point, the details for that point are shown in a popup box.<br /> 4. Chart Magnifier : Turns the mouse pointer into a square that contains a magnified view.<br /></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <h2><a name="a17"></a><a name="color_line_width_and">Color, Line Width, And Style Toolbars</a></h2> <div class="level2"> <p>While working with the drawing toolbar, you have the following other additional options located along the left side of the ChartNotes page:</p> <p><strong>Color Toolbar:</strong></p> <table class="inline" border="0"> <tbody> <tr> <td class="leftalign"><img title="Color Bar" class="medialeft" src="http://stockcharts.com/school/data/media/support/images/chartnotes/color_bar_000.gif" border="0" alt="Color Bar" /></td> <td class="leftalign">You can change the color of any line or box to one of 16 different colors. Simply click on the desired color, and draw your object. Or, select an object you've already drawn, and then click a color on the toolbar.</td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <p><strong>Line Width Toolbar:</strong></p> <table class="inline" border="0"> <tbody> <tr> <td class="leftalign"><img title="Line Style" class="medialeft" src="http://stockcharts.com/school/data/media/support/images/chartnotes/line_style_000.gif" border="0" alt="Line Style" /></td> <td class="leftalign">You can also change the look of any line by selecting one of three line widths, or the dashed line option.</td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <p><strong>Style Toolbar:</strong></p> <table class="inline" border="0"> <tbody> <tr> <td class="leftalign"><img title="Text Style" class="media" src="http://stockcharts.com/school/data/media/support/images/chartnotes/text_tool_style_bar_000.gif" border="0" alt="Text Style" /></td> <td class="leftalign">After selecting a text or callout box, font style choices appear to make the text larger, smaller, or bold.</td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <h2><a name="a18"></a><a name="hotkeys">Hotkeys</a></h2> <div class="level2"> <p>There are certain hotkeys supported by ChartNotes to make editing your charts easier. When a '+' occurs between two keys this means that the key on the left should be pressed and held, then the key on the right should be pressed. Unless specified 'click' means pressing either the left or right mouse button. (Note: Mac uses may need to use the Command key instead of the CTRL key.)</p> <table class="inline" border="0"> <tbody> <tr> <th> Key </th><th> Effect </th> </tr> <tr> <td>TAB</td> <td>Cycles through the annotation items on your chart.</td> </tr> <tr> <td>SHIFT</td> <td>Changes current tool to <strong>Selection Tool</strong> until release of SHIFT button.</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Arrow keys</td> <td>Move currently selected item in direction of arrow key.</td> </tr> <tr> <td>CTRL + z</td> <td>Undo last action.</td> </tr> <tr> <td>CTRL + d</td> <td>Duplicate currently selected item (except text-based items).</td> </tr> <tr> <td>CTRL + create new <strong>Box</strong> or <strong>Oval</strong></td> <td>Create filled <strong>Box</strong> or <strong>Oval</strong>.</td> </tr> <tr> <td>CTRL + create new <strong>Fibonacci Retracements</strong></td> <td>Create <strong>Fibonacci Retracements</strong> with additional two retracement lines.</td> </tr> <tr> <td>CTRL + click <strong>Box</strong> or <strong>Oval</strong></td> <td>Toggle fill status.</td> </tr> <tr> <td>CTRL + click <strong>Fibonacci Retracements</strong></td> <td>Toggle display of price data.</td> </tr> <tr> <td>CTRL + click <strong>Line</strong></td> <td>Duplicate <strong>Line</strong>.</td> </tr> <tr> <td>SHIFT after starting to drag a <strong>Box</strong> or <strong>Oval</strong> handle</td> <td>Create a perfect circle or square.</td> </tr> </tbody> </table> </div> <h2><a name="a19"></a><a name="finalizing_the_chart">Finalizing The Chart</a></h2> <p>Whether you want to start clean or save your chart, these tools are here for when you have finished with your ChartNotes.</p> <p><img title="DeleteReloadUpload" class="media" src="http://stockcharts.com/school/data/media/support/images/chartnotes/delete_reload_upload_000.gif" border="0" alt="DeleteReloadUpload" /></p> <ul> <li class="level1"> <div class="li"><strong>Delete All:</strong> Restores the chart to its original condition, erasing all annotations currently shown. When you click the button, a confirmation window displays. <span><strong>WARNING: This process cannot be undone!</strong></span></div> </li> <li class="level1"> <div class="li"><strong>Reload:</strong> Reloads the chart using the last uploaded version (if any); e.g., if you have made a series of annotations that you are not happy with, instead of deleting each item one-by-one, click this button to erase the annotations and start with a "clean slate" (per se). Before your annotations are removed, a confirmation window displays.</div> </li> <li class="level1"> <div class="li"><strong>Upload:</strong> Allows <a href="http://stockcharts.com/corp/extra.html" title="http://stockcharts.com/corp/extra.html">Extra!</a> users to store their "masterpieces" on StockCharts.com for later review and sharing with others. When uploading your file, you specify a name, and whether or not it should be a static image or a live, annotated chart.</div> </li> </ul> <p><br /> <img title="Detach" class="media" src="http://stockcharts.com/school/data/media/support/images/chartnotes/detach_000.gif" border="0" alt="Detach" /></p> <ul> <li class="level1"> <div class="li"><strong>Detach:</strong> Located in the bottom right, this button allows you to resize the ChartNotes tool itself. This can be very useful after using the Chart Sizing buttons.<br /></div> </li> </ul> <p><br /> <strong><em class="u">Saving/Sharing Annotated Charts</em></strong></p> <p><strong>Free and Basic users:</strong> You can save annotated charts to your own hard disk by taking a "screenshot".&nbsp;</p> <p><strong>Extra users:</strong> Extra! users can save annotated charts in any of their Favorites lists. You have the option to either save a "live" annotated chart (one that updates over time) in one of your regular lists, or to save the chart as a static image (a chart that does not update over time) in your "SnapShot" list.</p> <p>Simply press the <img title="Upload" class="media" src="http://stockcharts.com/school/data/media/support/images/chartnotes/uploadbutton_000.gif" border="0" alt="Upload" /> button in the upper right corner of the ChartNotes window to store your annotations. You will be prompted to select where you wish to save the chart.</p> <p><strong>Note:</strong> If you are annotating a chart you selected directly from one of your Favorites lists, the chart with annotations is automatically saved back into the original list, and overwrites the original chart.</p> 2009-02-01T20:25:34-08:00 21292 30077 25844 2009-06-09T13:40:26-07:00 209470