The Minervini trend template, explained
The trend template is a checklist of trend conditions popularised by trader Mark Minervini. A stock that passes all of them is in a well-established uptrend, which is where many momentum traders look for candidates.
Open the free scannerThe criteria
- Price is above the 150-day and 200-day moving averages.
- The 150-day average is above the 200-day average.
- The 200-day average has been rising for at least a month.
- The 50-day average is above both the 150-day and 200-day.
- Price is above the 50-day average.
- Price is at least 25–30% above its 52-week low.
- Price is within about 25% of its 52-week high.
- Relative strength rating is high, commonly above 70.
Why these checks
Together they describe a stock in the middle of a sustained advance: the averages are stacked in order and rising, the price is well off its lows and not far from its highs, and it has outperformed most other stocks. The aim is to filter out stocks in downtrends or long sideways bases.
Using the template in the scanner
The scanner runs the checks on every stock after each close and shows how many each stock passes. Use the swing trading screener to list the stocks that pass, then open a chart to judge the base and volume. Pair it with relative strength and the market breadth view to see whether conditions favour trend-following.
What it does not tell you
Passing the template is a filter, not a signal. It says nothing about entry price, stop placement or what happens next, and many stocks that pass will still fall. Treat the output as a list to research.
Frequently asked questions
Who created the trend template?
It was popularised by US trader Mark Minervini, who described it in his books on momentum trading. This site is independent and not affiliated with him.
Do I need to pass all eight criteria?
The template is defined as all of them together. The scanner also shows how many each stock passes, which is useful for spotting stocks that are close.
Does the template work in every market?
It is built for trending markets. In choppy or falling markets few stocks pass, which is itself information about market conditions.
Is this a buy signal?
No. It is a screening checklist for research, not a recommendation.