A technical analysis is the framework for analyzing a security in which you look at a firm's internal strengths and weaknesses and external opportunities and threats in order to gain an understanding of what the future holds for that firm and its stock.

What is a a stock?

A stock represents an ownership stake in a company as a common shareholder.

Common stocks allow shareholders to vote on company issues, with most companies granting one vote per share.

Some companies also offer stockholders dividend payouts, giving investors a stream of income on top of the market value of the stock.