Introduction

What Is CRT in Day Trading?

• CRT stands for Candle Range Theory. Each candle’s high-to-low forms a tradable range. Traders look for a quick sweep of one side of that range, then a run toward the opposite side. You’ll see this framed inside “smart-money” concepts. ICT Trading+1
• Why beginners care: it gives a clear map for entries, stops, and targets using simple levels you can draw in minutes. Primer with visuals: CRT walkthroughs and ICT resources. YouTube+1

Key CRT Concepts and Terms

Candle Range, CRT-High, CRT-Low, and Liquidity Raid

• The prior candle’s high is CRT-High. The prior candle’s low is CRT-Low. A “raid” is when price briefly takes one side’s liquidity. This sets up a move back across the range. ICT Trading

Market Structure Shift and Fair Value Gap

• A structure shift confirms momentum after the raid. Many traders refine entries with a fair value gap on the lower timeframe to reduce risk. ForexBee

Order Blocks and Session Context

• Order blocks mark zones where large orders likely sat. Session timing (London or New York) can affect how clean CRT ranges play out. Writo-Finance

How a CRT Setup Works (Step-By-Step)

Bullish CRT Model

• Mark the prior candle’s high and low on your higher timeframe. Wait for price to run below the prior low, then show a shift back up. Enter on the retest. Target the prior high. Place the stop under the raid candle. ICT Trading

Bearish CRT Model

• Mark the same levels. Look for a sweep above the prior high, then a shift down. Enter on the retest. Target the prior low. Stop goes above the raid candle. ICT Trading

Multi-Timeframe Workflow for Beginners

• Top-down view: map CRT levels on H1 or H4. Drop to M5–M15 for confirmation and entries. Stick to one session to start. ForexBee

Chart Setup and Tools

Timeframes and Drawing