In price action and ICT methodology, traders often struggle to differentiate between MSS (Market Structure Shift) and SMS (Structure Market Shift). These two concepts are essential for correctly confirming when the market is preparing to reverse — and when it has fully reversed.
This guide breaks down the difference between MSS and SMS, and shows how to combine them for reliable trend-shift confirmation.
MSS is an early warning signal that the market may be preparing to reverse.
It happens when price breaks a minor or internal structural point with displacement.
MSS tells you:
“Momentum changed — but the trend is not yet broken.”
It is the first sign of a potential reversal.
SMS is the confirmation of a true trend reversal.
It occurs when price breaks a major swing point (major HL or LH), proving that the previous trend has failed.
SMS tells you:
“Trend is officially broken. A new trend is starting.”
This is the confirmation you need before committing to a swing continuation.
| Term | Level of Structure | Meaning | Usage |
|---|---|---|---|
| MSS | Minor / Internal structure | Early momentum shift | Prepare for reversal |
| SMS | Major structure | Confirmed trend reversal | Enter trend continuation setups |
Below is the step-by-step confirmation model used in ICT price action:
Example:
Uptrend → series of HH (Higher Highs) and HL (Higher Lows)
Downtrend → series of LL and LH
A reversal usually starts with liquidity taken from:
This liquidation phase prepares for MSS.
After the liquidity grab:
This signals: “momentum is switching.”
But the trend is still intact at this stage.
Price then retraces to:
This is where you anticipate the real confirmation.
Price continues and breaks the major HL/LH, which confirms:
✔ Trend reversal
✔ New directional intent
✔ Swing structure shift
✔ Institutional order flow change
Once SMS forms, it’s safe to follow the new trend.
This combination helps you avoid premature entries and follow institutional order flow.
Understanding the difference between MSS and SMS is essential for timing reversals with precision.
Together, they form one of the most reliable structures for identifying new trends using ICT methodology.
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