Introduction
Williams %R is a momentum indicator measuring overbought and oversold levels, similarto a stochastic oscillator. It compares a stock's close to the high-low range over a certain period of time, usually 14 days. It was developed by Larry Williams.
WR is used to determine market entry and exit points. WR produce values from 0 to -100.Value over 80 usually indicates a stock is oversold, while value below 20 suggests a stock is overbought.
Williams %R Calculation
As with other oscillators, a period of time, usually representing a set number of days of data up to "now" or "today" is used. Typically a 10 or 14 day period of data is used but some traders may use as low as 5 days or as high as 21 day worth of data in the period under consideration in the calculations.
Formula
Williams %R = (Highest high - Current close) ÷ (Highest high - Lowest low) * - 100
Advantage
Williams %R is a momentum oscillator that measures the level of the close relative to the high-low range over a given period of time. Like all technical indicators, it is important to use the Williams %R in conjunction with other technical analysis tools. Volume, chart patterns and breakouts can be used to confirm or refute signals produced by Williams %R.