The Complete RSI Book is a comprehensive exploration of one of the most widely used momentum indicators in technical analysis: the Relative Strength Index (RSI). John Hayden moves beyond the common overbought/oversold interpretation and presents RSI as a dynamic analytical tool capable of identifying trend strength, momentum shifts, and structural market behavior.
Rather than treating RSI as a simple oscillator to fade extremes, Hayden reframes it as a context-sensitive indicator. He explains how RSI behaves differently in trending versus ranging markets, how its internal structure reflects momentum pressure, and why traditional static levels (such as 70/30) must be adapted to prevailing market conditions. The reader learns to evaluate RSI not in isolation, but as part of a structured analytical framework.
A key focus of the book is RSI divergence analysis. Hayden demonstrates how bullish and bearish divergences can signal potential turning points when interpreted within broader trend structure. He also explores RSI trendlines, failure swings, and pattern formations within the indicator itself—adding depth to conventional usage.
The book emphasizes disciplined interpretation rather than signal dependency. RSI becomes a tool for confirmation, strength measurement, and probability assessment rather than a mechanical entry trigger. Practical chart examples illustrate how RSI integrates with price action, trend analysis, and support/resistance frameworks.
Overall, The Complete RSI Book transforms RSI from a beginner-level oscillator into a professional momentum analysis instrument. It provides traders with a refined method for evaluating market condition, internal strength, and potential reversal structures within a disciplined technical framework.
✅ What You’ll Learn:
- How RSI measures internal momentum pressure
- How to adapt RSI levels for trending versus ranging markets
- How to identify and interpret RSI divergences
- How to draw trendlines and patterns within RSI
- How to integrate RSI with price action and trend analysis
- How to avoid common RSI misinterpretations
💡 Key Benefits:
- Elevates RSI usage beyond basic overbought/oversold signals
- Improves timing of trend continuation and reversal setups
- Adds structural confirmation to price-based analysis
- Reduces false signals through contextual interpretation
- Strengthens overall momentum-based decision-making
👤 Who This Book Is For:
- Technical traders using momentum indicators
- Swing traders seeking confirmation tools
- Traders refining divergence-based strategies
- Intermediate market participants building structured systems
- Not suitable for traders relying solely on automated signal systems
📚 Table of Contents:
- Introduction to the Relative Strength Index
- Understanding RSI Calculation and Structure
- RSI in Trending Markets
- RSI in Trading Ranges
- Divergences and Reversal Signals
- Failure Swings and Pattern Recognition
- RSI Trendlines and Indicator Analysis
- Integrating RSI with Price Action
- Strategy Development Using RSI
- Risk Management Considerations
The Complete RSI Book By John Hayden RSI: The Complete Book By John Hayden





Rhea Pineda (verified owner) –
Minus the mistakes (assuming there were, though I have not done the findings), it is a great book on RSI. I have used RSI for my trading and the techniques mentioned in this book does work. The only disappointment was that it only included a basic review of Fibonacci retracements.
Esperanza Hubbard (verified owner) –
My criteria for good books on trading are: 1) originality of the material; 2) applicability of the material to my own trading; and 3) contribution of the material to the broadening of my trading worldview. This book succeeds on all three points.
I was not previously aware of the multiple uses or depth of the RSI indicator. This book shows how to discern underlying market currents that are not readily obvious through other means. If you are interested in technical indicators, this work might prove to be a profitable read.
Forrest Watson (verified owner) –
This book is poorly written overall and is far from complete and there are quite a few errors. The only thing this book has going for it is that there isn’t much out there on RSI. Yes it is true, a bullish trend is between 40-80 and a bearish trend is between 20-60, however the author does not really explain how to really tell when there is a shift from bullish to bearish and vice versa. I am far from sold on the whole divergence thing allthough it does work from time to time. There is a much simpler way to tell when price is consoladating and how to tell when it is breaking out of consolodation and which direction.
Frankly, I think I am going to write my own book on RSI because it is desperately needed.
Matteo Rasmussen (verified owner) –
I have used RSI in the past but not with the effectiveness I am now, thanks to Mr. Hayden. As a trader I am always looking for that different perspective. Mr.Hayden shows aspects of the market I had not considered before. I found his work original, concise and usable. Thank you Mr. Hayden for enriching my trading.
Gerardo Hail (verified owner) –
Unfortunately there are not very many books on the RSI indicator, or I would have never considered this publication. Although there are a few useful concepts that may be unique with John Hayden, much of what is discussed has been around for quite awhile (80/40 and 60/20, hidden divergences, etc.). Other than support and resistance, RSI patterns are never even discussed. The main complaint here is that the book is absolutely riddled with errors, and many of them in key areas of discussion.
For example: The numbers in the spreadsheet illustrating the RSI formula construction do not add correctly. The author skips from RSI rule #1 to #3 with no mention of #2. Many of the reference labels discussed in the text are missing in the charts. At least one chart is shown in a different time zone than what is under discussion in the text. Be assured, this is only a very small sampling. I have read a few discussions of this book in various trading forums and their complaints are considerably more harsh than mine.
I find it amazing how this book made into publication with so many errors. The whole book, from cover design to content is very unprofessional, especially for the price. I have since contacted the author and publishers inquiring about updates. There has been no response.
Lainey Black (verified owner) –
An interesting book that attempts to use evidence based technical analysis but many studies show that the RSI strategies fail the profitability test. Nevertheless, it is full of good ideas and explanations about what traders do.
Onyx Bradford (verified owner) –
Excellent book.
Please read it many times, go through it while you practice in a demo account. Thanks J. Hayden for teaching how to trade the RSI properly. It is an eye opener book. The second rule not mentioned (as previous reader stated) is on page 62. Also page 72 says which is the rule #2 it is the simple divergence that confirms the existing trend. I recommend this book for all class of traders and from novice to advanced. Thanks once more for this gem i have more confidence with my trading. However have tried to reach Mr. Hayden at the email appearing in the last page but in vain his site does not exist. It should be wise Mr. Hayden to make his appearance through a site and to notify the readers where he can be reached.
Rylie Salazar (verified owner) –
I think it is a good book about RSI as it correct my misunderstanding of how to use RSI before. As there are so little books about RSI, I think it is a must read book for learning it. I bought it From a second hand from Amazon as no more new book available. But still, I enjoyed it so much and thanks a lot, John Hayden.
For those who want to learb more, can also read the “RSI: Logic, signals & time frame correlation” book from Walter J. baeyens. I also bought a second hand from Amazon. Together with John’s book, I learner a lot.