The Fieldgrid Planning Framework

A three-layer method for interpreting moving averages as part of a written weekly swing trade plan.

Every participant in our Swing Planning Workshop receives this framework. It is the backbone of how we teach moving average interpretation — not as isolated signals, but as context within a repeatable Sunday evening routine.

The framework assumes daily charts for entry timing and a weekly chart for trend bias. Holding periods typically range from three to fifteen trading days.

Annotated chart showing three layers of moving average analysis

Layer 1 — Trend bias (weekly chart)

Plot a 20-week simple moving average. Above it, only consider long swing ideas. Below it, stand aside or look for short setups if your broker permits. This filter eliminates roughly half of impulsive entries before you open the daily chart.

Layer 2 — Structure (daily chart)

Add a 20-day and 50-day average pair. In an uptrend, price should hold above the 50-day with the 20-day above the 50-day. Pullbacks that touch the 20-day without closing below the 50-day become candidate entry zones.

Layer 3 — Execution (daily chart)

Mark your entry, stop (below the 50-day or recent swing low), and target before Monday. Write one sentence explaining why the moving average context supports the trade. If you cannot write it clearly, do not enter.

Sunday evening checklist

  1. Scan your watchlist on the weekly chart. Remove names trading below the 20-week average if you only take long swings.
  2. On remaining names, check daily structure: is the 20-day above the 50-day?
  3. Identify one to three names approaching the 20-day from above — potential pullback entries for the week.
  4. Write entry price, stop, and target for each. Note the invalidation: a daily close below the 50-day cancels the setup.
  5. Review open positions against the same rules. Exit or tighten stops where structure has broken.

When the framework says stand aside

Choppy ranges where price crosses the 20-day repeatedly are poor environments for this method. The averages flatten and crossovers multiply. James covers these conditions in the Moving Average Clinic — the honest answer is often to reduce size or wait.

Learn the framework in person

The full workshop walks through each layer with live charts, individual feedback, and a completed planning template for your watchlist.

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