---
title: "What is the Lookback feature and How do I use it?"
slug: "what-is-the-lookback-feature-and-how-do-i-use-it"
updated: 2025-06-27T15:42:35Z
published: 2025-06-27T15:42:35Z
canonical: "patternfinderhelp.cmlviz.com/what-is-the-lookback-feature-and-how-do-i-use-it"
---

> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://patternfinderhelp.cmlviz.com/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# What is the Lookback feature and How do I use it?

### What is the Lookback feature?

The Lookback feature in Pattern Finder is a powerful tool that allows you to rewind time and view stock charts exactly as they appeared on a specific past date—complete with all algorithmic indicators and chart signals that were available at that time. Unlike traditional charting tools that show present-day overlays on historical data (creating hindsight bias), Lookback recreates the historical context in real time, allowing you to:

- Simulate what a chart looked like before future price movements occurred.
- Evaluate whether a trade would have made sense using only the information available on the decision date.
- Build trading plans without inadvertently relying on future data to justify past actions.

### How do I use it?

Using the Lookback feature is simple and intuitive:

1. **Open a Chart in Pattern Finder** Begin by selecting any stock and a historical time frame (e.g., 3-year, 18-month, etc.).

![](https://cdn.document360.io/4cbc05cb-225b-45bc-957f-c900a89c7b4d/Images/Documentation/image(65).png)
2. **Activate the Lookback Window** Choose a specific past date you want to analyze. This will load the chart exactly as it appeared on that date, including:

![](https://cdn.document360.io/4cbc05cb-225b-45bc-957f-c900a89c7b4d/Images/Documentation/image(66).png)
  - Support and resistance levels
  - Congestion zones
3. **Evaluate the Trade as If It Were Today** Ask yourself: “Would I have gone long (or short) based on this chart alone?” This encourages disciplined, realistic trade planning.
4. **Build a Trading Plan**

[Embedded content](https://player.vimeo.com/video/1095159039)

### Where can I learn more?

[Pattern Finder Webinar 6/14/2025: New Algorithms and Using PF with TradeMachine®](/v1/docs/pattern-finder-webinar-6142025-new-algorithms-and-using-pf-with-trademachine)

[How to Use Pattern Finder to Make TradeMachine® Better](/v1/docs/how-to-use-pattern-finder-to-make-trademachine-better)

> [!WARNING]
> Lookback feature and the AI button
> 
> When using the lookback feature, the AI button will become inactive. The AI button is only available on the chart for the current date.