Articles with MQL5 programming examples

icon

Access a huge collection of articles with code examples showing how to create indicators and trading robots for the MetaTrader platform in the MQL5 language. Source codes are attached to the articles, so you can open them in MetaEditor and run them to see how the applications work.

These articles will be useful both for those who have just started exploring automated trading and for professional traders with programming experience. They feature not only examples, but also contain new ideas.

Add a new article
latest | best
Library for easy and quick development of MetaTrader programs (part XII): Account object class and collection of account objects
Library for easy and quick development of MetaTrader programs (part XII): Account object class and collection of account objects

Library for easy and quick development of MetaTrader programs (part XII): Account object class and collection of account objects

In the previous article, we defined position closure events for MQL4 in the library and got rid of the unused order properties. Here we will consider the creation of the Account object, develop the collection of account objects and prepare the functionality for tracking account events.
Library for easy and quick development of MetaTrader programs (part XI). Compatibility with MQL4 - Position closure events
Library for easy and quick development of MetaTrader programs (part XI). Compatibility with MQL4 - Position closure events

Library for easy and quick development of MetaTrader programs (part XI). Compatibility with MQL4 - Position closure events

We continue the development of a large cross-platform library simplifying the development of programs for MetaTrader 5 and MetaTrader 4 platforms. In the tenth part, we resumed our work on the library compatibility with MQL4 and defined the events of opening positions and activating pending orders. In this article, we will define the events of closing positions and get rid of the unused order properties.
Library for easy and quick development of MetaTrader programs (part X): Compatibility with MQL4 - Events of opening a position and activating pending orders
Library for easy and quick development of MetaTrader programs (part X): Compatibility with MQL4 - Events of opening a position and activating pending orders

Library for easy and quick development of MetaTrader programs (part X): Compatibility with MQL4 - Events of opening a position and activating pending orders

In the previous articles, we started creating a large cross-platform library simplifying the development of programs for MetaTrader 5 and MetaTrader 4 platforms. In the ninth part, we started improving the library classes for working with MQL4. Here we will continue improving the library to ensure its full compatibility with MQL4.
Library for easy and quick development of MetaTrader programs (part IX): Compatibility with MQL4 - Preparing data
Library for easy and quick development of MetaTrader programs (part IX): Compatibility with MQL4 - Preparing data

Library for easy and quick development of MetaTrader programs (part IX): Compatibility with MQL4 - Preparing data

In the previous articles, we started creating a large cross-platform library simplifying the development of programs for MetaTrader 5 and MetaTrader 4 platforms. In the eighth part, we implemented the class for tracking order and position modification events. Here, we will improve the library by making it fully compatible with MQL4.
Library for easy and quick development of MetaTrader programs (part VIII): Order and position modification events
Library for easy and quick development of MetaTrader programs (part VIII): Order and position modification events

Library for easy and quick development of MetaTrader programs (part VIII): Order and position modification events

In the previous articles, we started creating a large cross-platform library simplifying the development of programs for MetaTrader 5 and MetaTrader 4 platforms. In the seventh part, we added tracking StopLimit orders activation and prepared the functionality for tracking other events involving orders and positions. In this article, we will develop the class for tracking order and position modification events.
Price velocity measurement methods
Price velocity measurement methods

Price velocity measurement methods

There are multiple different approaches to market research and analysis. The main ones are technical and fundamental. In technical analysis, traders collect, process and analyze numerical data and parameters related to the market, including prices, volumes, etc. In fundamental analysis, traders analyze events and news affecting the markets directly or indirectly. The article deals with price velocity measurement methods and studies trading strategies based on that methods.
Library for easy and quick development of MetaTrader programs (part VII): StopLimit order activation events, preparing the functionality for order and position modification events
Library for easy and quick development of MetaTrader programs (part VII): StopLimit order activation events, preparing the functionality for order and position modification events

Library for easy and quick development of MetaTrader programs (part VII): StopLimit order activation events, preparing the functionality for order and position modification events

In the previous articles, we started creating a large cross-platform library simplifying the development of programs for MetaTrader 5 and MetaTrader 4 platforms. In the sixth part, we trained the library to work with positions on netting accounts. Here we will implement tracking StopLimit orders activation and prepare the functionality to track order and position modification events.
Library for easy and quick development of MetaTrader programs (part VI): Netting account events
Library for easy and quick development of MetaTrader programs (part VI): Netting account events

Library for easy and quick development of MetaTrader programs (part VI): Netting account events

In the previous articles, we started creating a large cross-platform library simplifying the development of programs for MetaTrader 5 and MetaTrader 4 platforms. In the fifth part of the article series, we created trading event classes and the event collection, from which the events are sent to the base object of the Engine library and the control program chart. In this part, we will let the library to work on netting accounts.
Developing graphical interfaces based on .Net Framework and C# (part 2): Additional graphical elements
Developing graphical interfaces based on .Net Framework and C# (part 2): Additional graphical elements

Developing graphical interfaces based on .Net Framework and C# (part 2): Additional graphical elements

The article is a follow-up of the previous publication "Developing graphical interfaces for Expert Advisors and indicators based on .Net Framework and C#". It introduces new graphical elements for creating graphical interfaces.
Library for easy and quick development of MetaTrader programs (part V): Classes and collection of trading events, sending events to the program
Library for easy and quick development of MetaTrader programs (part V): Classes and collection of trading events, sending events to the program

Library for easy and quick development of MetaTrader programs (part V): Classes and collection of trading events, sending events to the program

In the previous articles, we started creating a large cross-platform library simplifying the development of programs for MetaTrader 5 and MetaTrader 4 platforms. In the fourth part, we tested tracking trading events on the account. In this article, we will develop trading event classes and place them to the event collections. From there, they will be sent to the base object of the Engine library and the control program chart.
Library for easy and quick development of MetaTrader programs (part IV): Trading events
Library for easy and quick development of MetaTrader programs (part IV): Trading events

Library for easy and quick development of MetaTrader programs (part IV): Trading events

In the previous articles, we started creating a large cross-platform library simplifying the development of programs for MetaTrader 5 and MetaTrader 4 platforms. We already have collections of historical orders and deals, market orders and positions, as well as the class for convenient selection and sorting of orders. In this part, we will continue the development of the base object and teach the Engine Library to track trading events on the account.
Using MATLAB 2018 computational capabilities in MetaTrader 5
Using MATLAB 2018 computational capabilities in MetaTrader 5

Using MATLAB 2018 computational capabilities in MetaTrader 5

After the upgrade of the MATLAB package in 2015, it is necessary to consider a modern way of creating DLL libraries. The article uses a sample predictive indicator to illustrate the peculiarities of linking MetaTrader 5 and MATLAB using modern 64-bit versions of the platforms, which are utilized nowadays. With the entire sequence of connecting MATLAB considered, MQL5 developers will be able to create applications with advanced computational capabilities much faster, avoiding «pitfalls».
Library for easy and quick development of MetaTrader programs (part III). Collection of market orders and positions, search and sorting
Library for easy and quick development of MetaTrader programs (part III). Collection of market orders and positions, search and sorting

Library for easy and quick development of MetaTrader programs (part III). Collection of market orders and positions, search and sorting

In the first part, we started creating a large cross-platform library simplifying the development of programs for MetaTrader 5 and MetaTrader 4 platforms. Further on, we implemented the collection of history orders and deals. Our next step is creating a class for a convenient selection and sorting of orders, deals and positions in collection lists. We are going to implement the base library object called Engine and add collection of market orders and positions to the library.
Library for easy and quick development of MetaTrader programs (part II). Collection of historical orders and deals
Library for easy and quick development of MetaTrader programs (part II). Collection of historical orders and deals

Library for easy and quick development of MetaTrader programs (part II). Collection of historical orders and deals

In the first part, we started creating a large cross-platform library simplifying the development of programs for MetaTrader 5 and MetaTrader 4 platforms. We created the COrder abstract object which is a base object for storing data on history orders and deals, as well as on market orders and positions. Now we will develop all the necessary objects for storing account history data in collections.
Library for easy and quick development of MetaTrader programs (part I). Concept, data management and first results
Library for easy and quick development of MetaTrader programs (part I). Concept, data management and first results

Library for easy and quick development of MetaTrader programs (part I). Concept, data management and first results

While analyzing a huge number of trading strategies, orders for development of applications for MetaTrader 5 and MetaTrader 4 terminals and various MetaTrader websites, I came to the conclusion that all this diversity is based mostly on the same elementary functions, actions and values appearing regularly in different programs. This resulted in DoEasy cross-platform library for easy and quick development of МetaТrader 5 and МetaТrader 4 applications.
Developing graphical interfaces for Expert Advisors and indicators based on .Net Framework and C#
Developing graphical interfaces for Expert Advisors and indicators based on .Net Framework and C#

Developing graphical interfaces for Expert Advisors and indicators based on .Net Framework and C#

The article presents a simple and fast method of creating graphical windows using Visual Studio with subsequent integration into the Expert Advisor's MQL code. The article is meant for non-specialist audiences and does not require any knowledge of C# and .Net technology.
The power of ZigZag (part II). Examples of receiving, processing and displaying data
The power of ZigZag (part II). Examples of receiving, processing and displaying data

The power of ZigZag (part II). Examples of receiving, processing and displaying data

In the first part of the article, I have described a modified ZigZag indicator and a class for receiving data of that type of indicators. Here, I will show how to develop indicators based on these tools and write an EA for tests that features making deals according to signals formed by ZigZag indicator. As an addition, the article will introduce a new version of the EasyAndFast library for developing graphical user interfaces.
The power of ZigZag (part I). Developing the base class of the indicator
The power of ZigZag (part I). Developing the base class of the indicator

The power of ZigZag (part I). Developing the base class of the indicator

Many researchers do not pay enough attention to determining the price behavior. At the same time, complex methods are used, which very often are simply “black boxes”, such as machine learning or neural networks. The most important question arising in that case is what data to submit for training a particular model.
Horizontal diagrams on MеtaTrader 5 charts
Horizontal diagrams on MеtaTrader 5 charts

Horizontal diagrams on MеtaTrader 5 charts

Horizontal diagrams are not a common occurrence on the terminal charts but they can still be of use in a number of tasks, for example when developing indicators displaying volume or price distribution for a certain period, when creating various market depth versions, etc. The article considers constructing and managing horizontal diagrams as arrays of graphical primitives.
Using OpenCL to test candlestick patterns
Using OpenCL to test candlestick patterns

Using OpenCL to test candlestick patterns

The article describes the algorithm for implementing the OpenCL candlestick patterns tester in the "1 minute OHLC" mode. We will also compare its speed with the built-in strategy tester launched in the fast and slow optimization modes.
Reversal patterns: Testing the Head and Shoulders pattern
Reversal patterns: Testing the Head and Shoulders pattern

Reversal patterns: Testing the Head and Shoulders pattern

This article is a follow-up to the previous one called "Reversal patterns: Testing the Double top/bottom pattern". Now we will have a look at another well-known reversal pattern called Head and Shoulders, compare the trading efficiency of the two patterns and make an attempt to combine them into a single trading system.
Reversal patterns: Testing the Double top/bottom pattern
Reversal patterns: Testing the Double top/bottom pattern

Reversal patterns: Testing the Double top/bottom pattern

Traders often look for trend reversal points since the price has the greatest potential for movement at the very beginning of a newly formed trend. Consequently, various reversal patterns are considered in the technical analysis. The Double top/bottom is one of the most well-known and frequently used ones. The article proposes the method of the pattern programmatic detection. It also tests the pattern's profitability on history data.
Using limit orders instead of Take Profit without changing the EA's original code
Using limit orders instead of Take Profit without changing the EA's original code

Using limit orders instead of Take Profit without changing the EA's original code

Using limit orders instead of conventional take profits has long been a topic of discussions on the forum. What is the advantage of this approach and how can it be implemented in your trading? In this article, I want to offer you my vision of this topic.
Movement continuation model - searching on the chart and execution statistics
Movement continuation model - searching on the chart and execution statistics

Movement continuation model - searching on the chart and execution statistics

This article provides programmatic definition of one of the movement continuation models. The main idea is defining two waves — the main and the correction one. For extreme points, I apply fractals as well as "potential" fractals - extreme points that have not yet formed as fractals.
EA remote control methods
EA remote control methods

EA remote control methods

The main advantage of trading robots lies in the ability to work 24 hours a day on a remote VPS server. But sometimes it is necessary to intervene in their work, while there may be no direct access to the server. Is it possible to manage EAs remotely? The article proposes one of the options for controlling EAs via external commands.
MQL5 Cookbook: Getting properties of an open hedge position
MQL5 Cookbook: Getting properties of an open hedge position

MQL5 Cookbook: Getting properties of an open hedge position

MetaTrader 5 is a multi-asset platform. Moreover, it supports different position management systems. Such opportunities provide significantly expanded options for the implementation and formalization of trading ideas. In this article, we discuss methods of handling and accounting of position properties in the hedging mode. The article features a derived class, as well as examples showing how to get and process the properties of a hedge position.
Elder-Ray (Bulls Power and Bears Power)
Elder-Ray (Bulls Power and Bears Power)

Elder-Ray (Bulls Power and Bears Power)

The article dwells on Elder-Ray trading system based on Bulls Power, Bears Power and Moving Average indicators (EMA — exponential averaging). This system was described by Alexander Elder in his book "Trading for a Living".
PairPlot graph based on CGraphic for analyzing correlations between data arrays (time series)
PairPlot graph based on CGraphic for analyzing correlations between data arrays (time series)

PairPlot graph based on CGraphic for analyzing correlations between data arrays (time series)

Comparing several time series during a technical analysis is a quite common task that requires appropriate tools. In this article, I suggest developing a tool for graphical analysis and detecting correlations between two or more time series.
Developing stock indicators featuring volume control through the example of the delta indicator
Developing stock indicators featuring volume control through the example of the delta indicator

Developing stock indicators featuring volume control through the example of the delta indicator

The article deals with the algorithm of developing stock indicators based on real volumes using the CopyTicks() and CopyTicksRange() functions. Some subtle aspects of developing such indicators, as well as their operation in real time and in the strategy tester are also described.
Universal RSI indicator for working in two directions simultaneously
Universal RSI indicator for working in two directions simultaneously

Universal RSI indicator for working in two directions simultaneously

When developing trading algorithms, we often encounter a problem: how to determine where a trend/flat begins and ends? In this article, we try to create a universal indicator, in which we try to combine signals for different types of strategies. We will try to simplify the process of obtaining trade signals in an expert as much as possible. An example of combining several indicators in one will be given.
Custom presentation of trading history and creation of report diagrams
Custom presentation of trading history and creation of report diagrams

Custom presentation of trading history and creation of report diagrams

The article describes custom methods for assessing the trading history. Two classes have been written for downloading and analyzing history. The first of them collects the trading history and represents it as a summary table. The second one deals with statistics: it calculates a number of variables and builds charts for a more efficient evaluation of trading results.
Expert Advisor featuring GUI: Adding functionality (part II)
Expert Advisor featuring GUI: Adding functionality (part II)

Expert Advisor featuring GUI: Adding functionality (part II)

This is the second part of the article showing the development of a multi-symbol signal Expert Advisor for manual trading. We have already created the graphical interface. It is now time to connect it with the program's functionality.
Integrating MQL-based Expert Advisors and databases (SQL Server, .NET and C#)
Integrating MQL-based Expert Advisors and databases (SQL Server, .NET and C#)

Integrating MQL-based Expert Advisors and databases (SQL Server, .NET and C#)

The article describes how to add the ability to work with Microsoft SQL Server database server to MQL5-based Expert Advisors. Import of functions from a DLL is used. The DLL is created using the Microsoft .NET platform and the C# language. The methods used in the article are also suitable for experts written in MQL4, with minor adjustments.
Visualizing optimization results using a selected criterion
Visualizing optimization results using a selected criterion

Visualizing optimization results using a selected criterion

In the article, we continue to develop the MQL application for working with optimization results. This time, we will show how to form the table of the best results after optimizing the parameters by specifying another criterion via the graphical interface.
preview
How to create Requirements Specification for ordering a trading robot

How to create Requirements Specification for ordering a trading robot

Are you trading using your own strategy? If your system rules can be formally described as software algorithms, it is better to entrust trading to an automated Expert Advisor. A robot does not need sleep or food and is not subject to human weaknesses. In this article, we show how to create Requirements Specification when ordering a trading robot in the Freelance service.
Implementing indicator calculations into an Expert Advisor code
Implementing indicator calculations into an Expert Advisor code

Implementing indicator calculations into an Expert Advisor code

The reasons for moving an indicator code to an Expert Advisor may vary. How to assess the pros and cons of this approach? The article describes implementing an indicator code into an EA. Several experiments are conducted to assess the speed of the EA's operation.
Expert Advisor featuring GUI: Creating the panel (part I)
Expert Advisor featuring GUI: Creating the panel (part I)

Expert Advisor featuring GUI: Creating the panel (part I)

Despite the fact that many traders still prefer manual trading, it is hardly possible to completely avoid the automation of routine operations. The article shows an example of developing a multi-symbol signal Expert Advisor for manual trading.
How to analyze the trades of the Signal selected in the chart
How to analyze the trades of the Signal selected in the chart

How to analyze the trades of the Signal selected in the chart

The trade Signals service develops in leaps and bounds. Trusting our funds to a signal provider, we would like to minimize the risk of losing our deposit. So how to puzzle out in this forest of trade signals? How to find the one that would produce profits? This paper proposes to create a tool for visually analyzing the history of trades on trade signals in a symbol chart.
Improving Panels: Adding transparency, changing background color and inheriting from CAppDialog/CWndClient
Improving Panels: Adding transparency, changing background color and inheriting from CAppDialog/CWndClient

Improving Panels: Adding transparency, changing background color and inheriting from CAppDialog/CWndClient

In this article, we continue studying the use of CAppDialog. Now we will learn how to set color for the background, borders and header of the dialog box. Also, this article provides a step-by-step description of how to add transparency for an application window when dragging it within the chart. We will consider how to create child classes of CAppDialog or CWndClient and analyze new specifics of working with controls. Finally, we will review new Projects from a new perspective.
Developing the oscillator-based ZigZag indicator. Example of executing a requirements specification
Developing the oscillator-based ZigZag indicator. Example of executing a requirements specification

Developing the oscillator-based ZigZag indicator. Example of executing a requirements specification

The article demonstrates the development of the ZigZag indicator in accordance with one of the sample specifications described in the article "How to prepare Requirements Specification when ordering an indicator". The indicator is built by extreme values defined using an oscillator. There is an ability to use one of five oscillators: WPR, CCI, Chaikin, RSI or Stochastic Oscillator.