A Simple Way to Read Trend Structure on XAUUSD

Trend structure is the most concise way to answer one question: which side is currently in control of price?

The definitions used

• Uptrend: price makes higher and higher peaks (higher highs) and higher and higher troughs (higher lows).
• Downtrend: lower and lower peaks (lower highs) and lower and lower troughs (lower lows).
• Sideways: peaks and troughs are roughly level.

Practical steps

1. Open the H4 timeframe for gold and mark the last 3–4 swings.
2. Determine whether the pattern is HH-HL, LH-LL, or flat.
3. Drop down to H1/M15 only to look for entries in the direction of the H4 structure.

As long as the structure has not truly broken (for example, an uptrend making a decisive lower low), assume the trend still holds.

Note: this is a reading framework, not a signal. Always combine it with risk management.