MQL4 and MQL5 Programming Articles

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Study the MQL5 language for programming trading strategies in numerous published articles mostly written by you - the community members. The articles are grouped into categories to help you quicker find answers to any questions related to programming: Integration, Tester, Trading Strategies, etc.

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MetaTrader 5 Machine Learning Blueprint (Part 3): Trend-Scanning Labeling Method

MetaTrader 5 Machine Learning Blueprint (Part 3): Trend-Scanning Labeling Method

We have built a robust feature engineering pipeline using proper tick-based bars to eliminate data leakage and solved the critical problem of labeling with meta-labeled triple-barrier signals. This installment covers the advanced labeling technique, trend-scanning, for adaptive horizons. After covering the theory, an example shows how trend-scanning labels can be used with meta-labeling to improve on the classic moving average crossover strategy.
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Artificial Algae Algorithm (AAA)

Artificial Algae Algorithm (AAA)

The article considers the Artificial Algae Algorithm (AAA) based on biological processes characteristic of microalgae. The algorithm includes spiral motion, evolutionary process and adaptation, which allows it to solve optimization problems. The article provides an in-depth analysis of the working principles of AAA and its potential in mathematical modeling, highlighting the connection between nature and algorithmic solutions.
Metalanguage of Graphical Lines-Requests. Trading and Qualified Trading Learning
Metalanguage of Graphical Lines-Requests. Trading and Qualified Trading Learning

Metalanguage of Graphical Lines-Requests. Trading and Qualified Trading Learning

The article describes a simple, accessible language of graphical trading requests compatible with traditional technical analysis. The attached Gterminal is a half-automated Expert Advisor using in trading results of graphical analysis. Better used for self-education and training of beginning traders.
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The MQL5 Standard Library Explorer (Part 1): Introduction with CTrade, CiMA, and CiATR

The MQL5 Standard Library Explorer (Part 1): Introduction with CTrade, CiMA, and CiATR

The MQL5 Standard Library plays a vital role in developing trading algorithms for MetaTrader 5. In this discussion series, our goal is to master its application to simplify the creation of efficient trading tools for MetaTrader 5. These tools include custom Expert Advisors, indicators, and other utilities. We begin today by developing a trend-following Expert Advisor using the CTrade, CiMA, and CiATR classes. This is an especially important topic for everyone—whether you are a beginner or an experienced developer. Join this discussion to discover more.
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Risk manager for manual trading

Risk manager for manual trading

In this article we will discuss in detail how to write a risk manager class for manual trading from scratch. This class can also be used as a base class for inheritance by algorithmic traders who use automated programs.
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DoEasy. Controls (Part 4): Panel control, Padding and Dock parameters

DoEasy. Controls (Part 4): Panel control, Padding and Dock parameters

In this article, I will implement handling Padding (internal indents/margin on all sides of an element) and Dock parameters (the way an object is located inside its container).
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Developing a Replay System (Part 38): Paving the Path (II)

Developing a Replay System (Part 38): Paving the Path (II)

Many people who consider themselves MQL5 programmers do not have the basic knowledge that I will outline in this article. Many people consider MQL5 to be a limited tool, but the actual reason is that they do not have the required knowledge. So, if you don't know something, don't be ashamed of it. It's better to feel ashamed for not asking. Simply forcing MetaTrader 5 to disable indicator duplication in no way ensures two-way communication between the indicator and the Expert Advisor. We are still very far from this, but the fact that the indicator is not duplicated on the chart gives us some confidence.
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Filtering and feature extraction in the frequency domain

Filtering and feature extraction in the frequency domain

In this article we explore the application of digital filters on time series represented in the frequency domain so as to extract unique features that may be useful to prediction models.
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Developing a trading Expert Advisor from scratch (Part 17): Accessing data on the web (III)

Developing a trading Expert Advisor from scratch (Part 17): Accessing data on the web (III)

In this article we continue considering how to obtain data from the web and to use it in an Expert Advisor. This time we will proceed to developing an alternative system.
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Self Optimizing Expert Advisors in MQL5 (Part 11): A Gentle Introduction to the Fundamentals of Linear Algebra

Self Optimizing Expert Advisors in MQL5 (Part 11): A Gentle Introduction to the Fundamentals of Linear Algebra

In this discussion, we will set the foundation for using powerful linear, algebra tools that are implemented in the MQL5 matrix and vector API. For us to make proficient use of this API, we need to have a firm understanding of the principles in linear algebra that govern intelligent use of these methods. This article aims to get the reader an intuitive level of understanding of some of the most important rules of linear algebra that we, as algorithmic traders in MQL5 need,to get started, taking advantage of this powerful library.
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Сode Lock Algorithm (CLA)

Сode Lock Algorithm (CLA)

In this article, we will rethink code locks, transforming them from security mechanisms into tools for solving complex optimization problems. Discover the world of code locks viewed not as simple security devices, but as inspiration for a new approach to optimization. We will create a whole population of "locks", where each lock represents a unique solution to the problem. We will then develop an algorithm that will "pick" these locks and find optimal solutions in a variety of areas, from machine learning to trading systems development.
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Day Trading Larry Connors RSI2 Mean-Reversion Strategies

Day Trading Larry Connors RSI2 Mean-Reversion Strategies

Larry Connors is a renowned trader and author, best known for his work in quantitative trading and strategies like the 2-period RSI (RSI2), which helps identify short-term overbought and oversold market conditions. In this article, we’ll first explain the motivation behind our research, then recreate three of Connors’ most famous strategies in MQL5 and apply them to intraday trading of the S&P 500 index CFD.
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Manual Backtesting Made Easy: Building a Custom Toolkit for Strategy Tester in MQL5

Manual Backtesting Made Easy: Building a Custom Toolkit for Strategy Tester in MQL5

In this article, we design a custom MQL5 toolkit for easy manual backtesting in the Strategy Tester. We explain its design and implementation, focusing on interactive trade controls. We then show how to use it to test strategies effectively
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Introduction to MQL5 (Part 25): Building an EA that Trades with Chart Objects (II)

Introduction to MQL5 (Part 25): Building an EA that Trades with Chart Objects (II)

This article explains how to build an Expert Advisor (EA) that interacts with chart objects, particularly trend lines, to identify and trade breakout and reversal opportunities. You will learn how the EA confirms valid signals, manages trade frequency, and maintains consistency with user-selected strategies.
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Neural networks made easy (Part 37): Sparse Attention

Neural networks made easy (Part 37): Sparse Attention

In the previous article, we discussed relational models which use attention mechanisms in their architecture. One of the specific features of these models is the intensive utilization of computing resources. In this article, we will consider one of the mechanisms for reducing the number of computational operations inside the Self-Attention block. This will increase the general performance of the model.
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Introduction to MQL5 (Part 8): Beginner's Guide to Building Expert Advisors (II)

Introduction to MQL5 (Part 8): Beginner's Guide to Building Expert Advisors (II)

This article addresses common beginner questions from MQL5 forums and demonstrates practical solutions. Learn to perform essential tasks like buying and selling, obtaining candlestick prices, and managing automated trading aspects such as trade limits, trading periods, and profit/loss thresholds. Get step-by-step guidance to enhance your understanding and implementation of these concepts in MQL5.
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DoEasy. Controls (Part 8): Base WinForms objects by categories, GroupBox and CheckBox controls

DoEasy. Controls (Part 8): Base WinForms objects by categories, GroupBox and CheckBox controls

The article considers creation of 'GroupBox' and 'CheckBox' WinForms objects, as well as the development of base objects for WinForms object categories. All created objects are still static, i.e. they are unable to interact with the mouse.
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Volumetric neural network analysis as a key to future trends

Volumetric neural network analysis as a key to future trends

The article explores the possibility of improving price forecasting based on trading volume analysis by integrating technical analysis principles with LSTM neural network architecture. Particular attention is paid to the detection and interpretation of anomalous volumes, the use of clustering and the creation of features based on volumes and their definition in the context of machine learning.
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Sentiment Analysis and Deep Learning for Trading with EA and Backtesting with Python

Sentiment Analysis and Deep Learning for Trading with EA and Backtesting with Python

In this article, we will introduce Sentiment Analysis and ONNX Models with Python to be used in an EA. One script runs a trained ONNX model from TensorFlow for deep learning predictions, while another fetches news headlines and quantifies sentiment using AI.
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Introduction to MQL5 (Part 16): Building Expert Advisors Using Technical Chart Patterns

Introduction to MQL5 (Part 16): Building Expert Advisors Using Technical Chart Patterns

This article introduces beginners to building an MQL5 Expert Advisor that identifies and trades a classic technical chart pattern — the Head and Shoulders. It covers how to detect the pattern using price action, draw it on the chart, set entry, stop loss, and take profit levels, and automate trade execution based on the pattern.
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Data Science and Machine Learning (Part 08): K-Means Clustering in plain MQL5

Data Science and Machine Learning (Part 08): K-Means Clustering in plain MQL5

Data mining is crucial to a data scientist and a trader because very often, the data isn't as straightforward as we think it is. The human eye can not understand the minor underlying pattern and relationships in the dataset, maybe the K-means algorithm can help us with that. Let's find out...
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DoEasy. Controls (Part 20): SplitContainer WinForms object

DoEasy. Controls (Part 20): SplitContainer WinForms object

In the current article, I will start developing the SplitContainer control from the MS Visual Studio toolkit. This control consists of two panels separated by a vertical or horizontal movable separator.
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Testing and optimization of binary options strategies in MetaTrader 5

Testing and optimization of binary options strategies in MetaTrader 5

In this article, I will check and optimize binary options strategies in MetaTrader 5.
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From Novice to Expert: Programming Candlesticks

From Novice to Expert: Programming Candlesticks

In this article, we take the first step in MQL5 programming, even for complete beginners. We'll show you how to transform familiar candlestick patterns into a fully functional custom indicator. Candlestick patterns are valuable as they reflect real price action and signal market shifts. Instead of manually scanning charts—an approach prone to errors and inefficiencies—we'll discuss how to automate the process with an indicator that identifies and labels patterns for you. Along the way, we’ll explore key concepts like indexing, time series, Average True Range (for accuracy in varying market volatility), and the development of a custom reusable Candlestick Pattern library for use in future projects.
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Training a multilayer perceptron using the Levenberg-Marquardt algorithm

Training a multilayer perceptron using the Levenberg-Marquardt algorithm

The article presents an implementation of the Levenberg-Marquardt algorithm for training feedforward neural networks. A comparative analysis of performance with algorithms from the scikit-learn Python library has been conducted. Simpler learning methods, such as gradient descent, gradient descent with momentum, and stochastic gradient descent are preliminarily discussed.
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Design Patterns in software development and MQL5 (Part 3): Behavioral Patterns 1

Design Patterns in software development and MQL5 (Part 3): Behavioral Patterns 1

A new article from Design Patterns articles and we will take a look at one of its types which is behavioral patterns to understand how we can build communication methods between created objects effectively. By completing these Behavior patterns we will be able to understand how we can create and build a reusable, extendable, tested software.
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Neural Networks in Trading: Enhancing Transformer Efficiency by Reducing Sharpness (SAMformer)

Neural Networks in Trading: Enhancing Transformer Efficiency by Reducing Sharpness (SAMformer)

Training Transformer models requires large amounts of data and is often difficult since the models are not good at generalizing to small datasets. The SAMformer framework helps solve this problem by avoiding poor local minima. This improves the efficiency of models even on limited training datasets.
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Price Action Analysis Toolkit Development (Part 39): Automating BOS and ChoCH Detection in MQL5

Price Action Analysis Toolkit Development (Part 39): Automating BOS and ChoCH Detection in MQL5

This article presents Fractal Reaction System, a compact MQL5 system that converts fractal pivots into actionable market-structure signals. Using closed-bar logic to avoid repainting, the EA detects Change-of-Character (ChoCH) warnings and confirms Breaks-of-Structure (BOS), draws persistent chart objects, and logs/alerts every confirmed event (desktop, mobile and sound). Read on for the algorithm design, implementation notes, testing results and the full EA code so you can compile, test and deploy the detector yourself.
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Graphics in DoEasy library (Part 99): Moving an extended graphical object using a single control point

Graphics in DoEasy library (Part 99): Moving an extended graphical object using a single control point

In the previous article, I implemented the ability to move pivot points of an extended graphical object using control forms. Now I am going to implement the ability to move a composite graphical object using a single graphical object control point (form).
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Building AI-Powered Trading Systems in MQL5 (Part 1): Implementing JSON Handling for AI APIs

Building AI-Powered Trading Systems in MQL5 (Part 1): Implementing JSON Handling for AI APIs

In this article, we develop a JSON parsing framework in MQL5 to handle data exchange for AI API integration, focusing on a JSON class for processing JSON structures. We implement methods to serialize and deserialize JSON data, supporting various data types like strings, numbers, and objects, essential for communicating with AI services like ChatGPT, enabling future AI-driven trading systems by ensuring accurate data handling and manipulation.
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Data Science and ML (Part 28): Predicting Multiple Futures for EURUSD, Using AI

Data Science and ML (Part 28): Predicting Multiple Futures for EURUSD, Using AI

It is a common practice for many Artificial Intelligence models to predict a single future value. However, in this article, we will delve into the powerful technique of using machine learning models to predict multiple future values. This approach, known as multistep forecasting, allows us to predict not only tomorrow's closing price but also the day after tomorrow's and beyond. By mastering multistep forecasting, traders and data scientists can gain deeper insights and make more informed decisions, significantly enhancing their predictive capabilities and strategic planning.
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Neural networks made easy (Part 18): Association rules

Neural networks made easy (Part 18): Association rules

As a continuation of this series of articles, let's consider another type of problems within unsupervised learning methods: mining association rules. This problem type was first used in retail, namely supermarkets, to analyze market baskets. In this article, we will talk about the applicability of such algorithms in trading.
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Price Action Analysis Toolkit Development (Part 46): Designing an Interactive Fibonacci Retracement EA with Smart Visualization in MQL5

Price Action Analysis Toolkit Development (Part 46): Designing an Interactive Fibonacci Retracement EA with Smart Visualization in MQL5

Fibonacci tools are among the most popular instruments used by technical analysts. In this article, we’ll build an Interactive Fibonacci EA that draws retracement and extension levels that react dynamically to price movement, delivering real‑time alerts, stylish lines, and a scrolling news‑style headline. Another key advantage of this EA is flexibility; you can manually type the high (A) and low (B) swing values directly on the chart, giving you exact control over the market range you want to analyze.
Interview with Matúš German (ATC 2012)
Interview with Matúš German (ATC 2012)

Interview with Matúš German (ATC 2012)

It's the second time Matúš German participates in the Automated Trading Championship. By the end of the fourth week of ATC 2012 his Expert Advisor has been holding its positions in the TOP-10 having about $30 000. Matúš is from Slovakia, from the little town Bardejov. Matúš is interested in trading for about 5 years and he develops Expert Advisors for 3 years already.
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Population optimization algorithms: Invasive Weed Optimization (IWO)

Population optimization algorithms: Invasive Weed Optimization (IWO)

The amazing ability of weeds to survive in a wide variety of conditions has become the idea for a powerful optimization algorithm. IWO is one of the best algorithms among the previously reviewed ones.
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Reimagining Classic Strategies (Part XI): Moving Average Cross Over (II)

Reimagining Classic Strategies (Part XI): Moving Average Cross Over (II)

The moving averages and the stochastic oscillator could be used to generate trend following trading signals. However, these signals will only be observed after the price action has occurred. We can effectively overcome this inherent lag in technical indicators using AI. This article will teach you how to create a fully autonomous AI-powered Expert Advisor in a manner that can improve any of your existing trading strategies. Even the oldest trading strategy possible can be improved.
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Frequency domain representations of time series: The Power Spectrum

Frequency domain representations of time series: The Power Spectrum

In this article we discuss methods related to the analysis of timeseries in the frequency domain. Emphasizing the utility of examining the power spectra of time series when building predictive models. In this article we will discuss some of the useful perspectives to be gained by analyzing time series in the frequency domain using the discrete fourier transform (dft).
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Developing a Replay System — Market simulation (Part 04): adjusting the settings (II)

Developing a Replay System — Market simulation (Part 04): adjusting the settings (II)

Let's continue creating the system and controls. Without the ability to control the service, it is difficult to move forward and improve the system.
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Neural networks made easy (Part 56): Using nuclear norm to drive research

Neural networks made easy (Part 56): Using nuclear norm to drive research

The study of the environment in reinforcement learning is a pressing problem. We have already looked at some approaches previously. In this article, we will have a look at yet another method based on maximizing the nuclear norm. It allows agents to identify environmental states with a high degree of novelty and diversity.
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Introduction to MQL5 (Part 24): Building an EA that Trades with Chart Objects

Introduction to MQL5 (Part 24): Building an EA that Trades with Chart Objects

This article teaches you how to create an Expert Advisor that detects support and resistance zones drawn on the chart and executes trades automatically based on them.