Break of Structure (BOS) — what it is and how to use it in trading
Definition
A Break of Structure (BOS) is a close above the last significant swing high (BOS up) or below the last swing low (BOS down), confirming the market's current trend structure is continuing.
How it works in the builder
In the builder, bos_up/bos_down are boolean operands with left/right parameters that set how many bars on each side confirm the swing being compared against the current close. The signal arrives with a delay of right bars — the price of being able to confirm the swing at all.
What it looks like on the chart
On the chart a BOS is usually marked with a horizontal line at the broken swing level and a marker where the candle's body (not its wick) crossed it.
Typical use
A trend-following entry in the direction of the break, especially paired with a zone (FVG/Order Block) price bounced from before the break: bos_up == 1 together with price_in_fvg_bull == 1 on the preceding bars.
Common pitfalls
A BOS confirms a trend that is already in place — it doesn't predict one. During a volatility spike a break can be false and snap right back. Don't confuse it with a CHoCH: a BOS is about continuation, a CHoCH is about a change in character.
This block is available in the strategy builder
137 no-code blocks — build an entry condition with this term and test it on history
Historical results do not guarantee future ones. The service is an informational and analytical tool, not an individual investment recommendation; trades are not executed.
BOS Up
Block variants
BOS Down