The DI function is part of the Directional Movement System, primarily used to calculate the Directional Index (DI) which is a component of the Average Directional Index (ADX). The DI function helps in identifying the strength of a price trend by calculating the difference between the Plus Directional Indicator (DI+) and the Minus Directional Indicator (DI-).
DI[N](price)
Parameters:
myDI = DI[14](close)
This example calculates the DI value using the closing price over the last 14 periods.
The DI function is crucial for traders who use technical analysis to gauge the strength of a market trend. DI+ indicates upward price movement, while DI- indicates downward price movement. The DI function, by calculating the difference between these two indicators, provides a value that can help in assessing the overall direction and strength of the trend. A positive DI value typically suggests an upward trend, whereas a negative DI value may indicate a downward trend.
Understanding and using the DI function can be an essential part of a technical analyst’s toolkit, especially when combined with other components of the ADX to analyze market trends more comprehensively.