Most experienced traders will tell you that the setups for good or losing trades look identical in the context of short-term market activity. However, the longer-term backdrop (or time frame) can distinguish between them. Additional help comes from the ATM Studies, where we attempt to eliminate a side when trading so the short-term opportunities don't resemble each other.
Traditionally bar or line charts provide a good deal of price information but nothing about the conditions surrounding it. In addition, most charts are white bars on a dark background or black bars on a lighter background. Consequently, the question becomes how you interpret the action.
The ATM Studies tell a story of the backdrop of the market by drawing a picture. They change the black and white chart into a road map of the market's condition. They help one understand the market condition so you, as a PM or Trader, can efficiently work the studies, charts, and interpretation into your workflow. And it all begins with three studies used to determine market conditions. They are ATM Trend Bars, ATM Trend Lines, and ATM Trigger.