Structural vs Reactionary Sweep
A low gets taken. Is it a break or a sweep? Structural sweeps target levels that broke other structural levels — they carry historical significance. Reactionary sweeps target levels that gave reactions while the other side was in control — they exist purely to generate fuel. Understanding which is happening prevents you from getting trapped.
Structural Sweep
- Below a low that broke a high (bullish)
- Above a high that broke a low (bearish)
- Dense cluster of stops from structural break
- Predictable location — always tied to BOS points
Reactionary Sweep
- Zone gives reaction while not in control
- Reaction exists purely to generate orders
- Initial reaction point must be broken for valid sweep
- Traps counter-trend traders before continuation
When Both Combine: Double Liquidity
The highest-probability setups occur when structural and reactionary liquidity exist at the same point:
- A zone gives a reaction (creating reactionary liquidity)
- That reaction also breaks a structural level (creating structural liquidity)
- Both types of orders now cluster at the same level
- The market has double the reason to sweep that level
Double liquidity = significantly higher sweep probability
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | Structural Sweep | Reactionary Sweep |
|---|---|---|
| Definition | Liquidity at a level that broke another level | Liquidity from a zone reacting while not in control |
| Bullish example | Below a HL that broke a previous HH | Supply reacting in a demand-controlled market |
| Bearish example | Above a LH that broke a previous LL | Demand reacting in a supply-controlled market |
| Order types | Stop losses from BOS entries, limit orders | Counter-trend entries, FOMO orders |
| Predictability | High — always at BOS pivot points | Moderate — requires identifying control first |
| Confirmation needed | Wick below/above + reversal | Initial reaction point must be broken |
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if a level break is a sweep or a real BOS?
Use the hard close candle confirmation. If price breaks the level with only a wick (no close beyond), it's likely a sweep. If price closes beyond the level with a hard close candle, it's more likely a real BOS.
Can I trade the sweep itself?
Yes — after the sweep completes and order flow confirms the continuation direction (first level of respect holds, LPX fails), the entry after a sweep is one of the highest-probability setups available.
Why does supply give reactions in a bullish market?
To generate liquidity. The reaction entices short sellers into the market. Their stop losses above the reaction high become fuel for the next move up. The market needs these orders to power larger moves.
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