How to Screen Stocks by Volume and Price Action on NSE
Introduction
Volume and price action are key indicators for identifying high-probability trading setups. Screening NSE stocks using these two factors helps traders catch breakouts, reversals, or strong trending moves. In this guide, you’ll learn how to use volume and price action filters on the NSE Screener and other tools for better trade decisions.
Why Volume and Price Action Matter
Volume confirms the strength behind a price move. A stock moving up with high volume signals strong buying interest, while low-volume moves often lack conviction. When combined with price action patterns like breakouts or support/resistance bounces, volume-based screening becomes a powerful trading strategy.
Step-by-Step: How to Screen NSE Stocks by Volume
Method 1: Using the Official NSE Screener
The official NSE website offers a basic screener. Here’s how to use it:
- Go to www.nseindia.com
- Click “Market Data” → “Screener”
- Use these filters:
- Volume Filter: Choose stocks with volume > 1 lakh or as per your strategy
- Price Filter: Select price range (e.g., ₹50–₹500 for midcaps)
- % Change: Add this to spot active stocks with movement
- Sort the result by volume or % change
📌 Note: This tool doesn’t support candlestick-based patterns or intraday volume comparison.
Method 2: Using Chartink for Price Action & Volume Setup
For more advanced screening based on volume spikes or price action, follow this:
- Visit www.chartink.com/screener
- Use these conditions:
- Latest Volume > 2x 20-day average volume
- Close > Previous Day’s High (for breakout)
- RSI between 45–60 (optional momentum filter)
- Run the screener and check the result charts.
Example Formula:
scssCopyEditLatest volume > 2 * SMA(Volume, 20)
AND
Close > High 1 day ago
You can customize based on your entry style.
Common Price Action Filters to Combine with Volume
| Pattern | Description | Use with Volume? |
|---|---|---|
| Breakout | Close above resistance | Confirm with rising volume |
| Reversal | Hammer/Doji near support | Confirm with volume spike |
| Inside Bar | Narrow range day | Watch next day with volume breakout |
| Gap Up with Volume | Open > yesterday’s high | Ideal with 2x or 3x volume |
Ideal Volume Levels by Market Cap
| Market Cap | Minimum Volume (daily) |
|---|---|
| Large Cap | 5 lakh+ shares |
| Mid Cap | 2 lakh+ shares |
| Small Cap | 50,000+ shares |
Avoid stocks with low volume even if they show strong price patterns, as they may lack liquidity for smooth trade execution.
When to Use Volume & Price Filters
- Intraday trading: Use pre-market or live data tools like TradeBrains or Fyers.
- Swing trading: Run filters at market close or on weekly charts.
- Breakout strategies: Combine price breakout + above-average volume.
- Reversal plays: Look for exhaustion candles + volume confirmation.
Tools That Support Volume & Price Filters
| Tool | Supports Volume? | Supports Price Patterns? | Export? |
|---|---|---|---|
| NSE Screener | ✅ Basic volume | ❌ | ❌ |
| Chartink | ✅ Advanced | ✅ | ✅ |
| Screener.in | ✅ (fundamental) | ❌ | ✅ |
| Investing.com Screener | ✅ | ✅ (limited) | ✅ |
| TradingView (Pro) | ✅ Intraday & EOD | ✅ Advanced | ✅ (manual) |
Final Tips for Traders
- Always cross-check screener results with charts before entering trades.
- Watch for volume drying up before breakout, then a sudden spike.
- Don’t trade illiquid stocks, even if the pattern looks good.
- Use filters like “Volume > 2x Average Volume” to confirm strength.
FAQs
Can I screen NSE stocks live during market hours?
Only using advanced tools like Chartink Premium or TradingView with a real-time data plan.
Is high volume always good?
No. Check context — volume on a breakout is good, but on a downtrend, it may indicate panic selling.
Can I use these filters for intraday trading?
Yes, but use tools with real-time data and intraday candles (e.g., 5-min or 15-min).
What volume level is considered strong?
Volume that is at least 2–3x the 20-day average is considered significant.
Conclusion
Screening stocks by volume and price action on the NSE is a practical and effective strategy for identifying high-potential trades. While the official NSE Screener has basic features, combining it with tools like Chartink helps you refine your results and make smarter trading decisions.
