What it means
It is the trigger in most ICT entry models.
In practice
The shift is the moment traders using ICT methods stop waiting and start planning an entry. The usual sequence is a run on liquidity, then a forceful move that breaks a recent swing point in the opposite direction.
The force matters: large candles that leave a fair value gap behind show commitment. Traders then look to enter on a return into that gap or into the order block at the start of the move.
What to watch for
A break with small, overlapping candles and no prior sweep is weak evidence. The pattern is also easy to see everywhere in hindsight, so define what counts before the session, not after.
Related terms
4 terms- Change of characterThe first close against the trend through its last protected swing, an early sign the trend may be turning.
- DisplacementA fast, large-bodied move with little wick that shows intent, breaks structure and leaves fair value gaps.
- Liquidity sweepPrice wicking through an obvious high or low to take the stops, then closing back inside and reversing.
- MSS and FVG entrySweep liquidity, displace into a structure shift, then enter on the retrace into the fair value gap it left.