Motive Wave Variants · Lesson 3 of 6

Wave Extensions.

In most Elliott Wave impulses, one of the three motive waves (W1, W3, or W5) is dramatically longer than the other two, typically 1.618 times or more. This is the wave extension. The extended wave has its own clearly visible 5-wave sub-structure, while the non-extended waves are often similar in length to each other. W3 extension is by far the most common in modern markets. W5 extension appears regularly in commodities. W1 extension is rare, usually seen in parabolic late-cycle moves.

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Figure III
One wave dominates: the W3 extension
Wave Personality
Wave 1
The First Move
Skeptical

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Rule violated: Wave 4 cannot enter Wave 1's territory
Price Time W1 ~ 80 (modest) W3 ~ 285 (EXTENDED) W5 ~ 80 (W1 = W5) W3 extension: W3 is ~3.5x the length of W1 and W5. W1 and W5 are typically similar in length when W3 extends. 1 2 3 4 5 W5 ~ 220 (EXTENDED) W5 extension: W5 becomes the longest wave. W1 and W3 are similar, modest length. Common in commodities and late-stage moves. 1 2 3 4 5 W1 ~ 245 (EXTENDED) W1 extension (RARE): W1 is the longest wave. Typical in parabolic late-cycle moves at the absolute end of a larger cycle. Real-market frequency: W3 extension - most common (especially equities, crypto). W5 extension - regular (commodities, late stages). W1 extension - rare. (i) (ii) (iii) (iv) (v) 1 2 3 4 5
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