The Problem with Inherited Patterns
Most traders inherit pattern names before they ever define what the pattern actually is. A setup may appear obvious on one timeframe and disappear on another. That means the visible pattern may be a product of the presentation layer rather than stable market behavior.
Definition Comes First
A researchable pattern needs an objective definition. The definition should specify the data, reference point, condition, threshold, and outcome being evaluated.
If two people cannot identify the same pattern from the same data, the pattern still contains interpretation.
From Visual Label to Research Object
Instead of asking whether something “looks like” a setup, the better question is whether the behavior can be defined in a way that allows repeatable testing.
The Goal
The purpose is not to eliminate creativity. The purpose is to turn ideas into measurable research objects so they can be accepted, rejected, refined, or compared.