CPR formula
Pivot = (High + Low + Close) ÷ 3
BC = (High + Low) ÷ 2
TC = (Pivot − BC) + Pivot
CPR width % = |TC − BC| ÷ Pivot × 100If TC comes out below BC, the two are swapped so TC is always the upper line.
Worked example
With a high of 25,250, low of 24,950 and close of 25,180: pivot = 25,126.67, BC = 25,100 and TC = 25,153.33. The width is 53.33 points, about 0.21% of the pivot — a fairly narrow CPR, hinting at a possible trending session.
Width thresholds are rules of thumb, not fixed values. Compare today's width with recent sessions on the same instrument: a width well below the recent average matters more than any absolute number.
Frequently asked questions
What does a narrow CPR mean?
A narrow CPR (the top and bottom central levels close together) suggests the previous session was balanced and the next one may trend strongly. A wide CPR suggests a sideways, range-bound session.
Which data should I use?
For a daily CPR, use the previous trading day’s high, low and close. For weekly or monthly CPR, use the previous week’s or month’s values.
How do traders use CPR?
Opening above the CPR is read as bullish and below as bearish. The CPR itself often acts as support or resistance, and a virgin CPR (one price never touched) is watched as a magnet in later sessions.
Results are estimates for educational purposes only and are not investment, tax or financial advice. Verify figures with your broker or advisor before acting on them.