MQL4 and MQL5 Programming Articles
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.
Follow our new publications and discuss them on the Forum!
Add a new article
You are missing trading opportunities:
- Free trading apps
- Over 8,000 signals for copying
- Economic news for exploring financial markets
Registration
Log in
You agree to website policy and terms of use
If you do not have an account, please register
Example of Stochastic Optimization and Optimal Control
This Expert Advisor, named SMOC (likely standing for Stochastic Model Optimal Control), is a simple example of an advanced algorithmic trading system for MetaTrader 5. It uses a combination of technical indicators, model predictive control, and dynamic risk management to make trading decisions. The EA incorporates adaptive parameters, volatility-based position sizing, and trend analysis to optimize its performance across varying market conditions.
Trading with the MQL5 Economic Calendar (Part 8): Optimizing News-Driven Backtesting with Smart Event Filtering and Targeted Logs
In this article, we optimize our economic calendar with smart event filtering and targeted logging for faster, clearer backtesting in live and offline modes. We streamline event processing and focus logs on critical trade and dashboard events, enhancing strategy visualization. These improvements enable seamless testing and refinement of news-driven trading strategies.
Example of CNA (Causality Network Analysis), SMOC (Stochastic Model Optimal Control) and Nash Game Theory with Deep Learning
We will add Deep Learning to those three examples that were published in previous articles and compare results with previous. The aim is to learn how to add DL to other EA.
Data Science and ML (Part 43): Hidden Patterns Detection in Indicators Data Using Latent Gaussian Mixture Models (LGMM)
Have you ever looked at the chart and felt that strange sensation… that there’s a pattern hidden just beneath the surface? A secret code that might reveal where prices are headed if only you could crack it? Meet LGMM, the Market’s Hidden Pattern Detector. A machine learning model that helps identify those hidden patterns in the market.
Developing a multi-currency Expert Advisor (Part 18): Automating group selection considering forward period
Let's continue to automate the steps we previously performed manually. This time we will return to the automation of the second stage, that is, the selection of the optimal group of single instances of trading strategies, supplementing it with the ability to take into account the results of instances in the forward period.
Codex Pipelines, from Python to MQL5, for Indicator Selection: A Multi-Quarter Analysis of the XLF ETF with Machine Learning
We continue our look at how the selection of indicators can be pipelined when facing a ‘none-typical’ MetaTrader asset. MetaTrader 5 is primarily used to trade forex, and that is good given the liquidity on offer, however the case for trading outside of this ‘comfort-zone’, is growing bolder with not just the overnight rise of platforms like Robinhood, but also the relentless pursuit of an edge for most traders. We consider the XLF ETF for this article and also cap our revamped pipeline with a simple MLP.
Exploring Machine Learning in Unidirectional Trend Trading Using Gold as a Case Study
This article discusses an approach to trading only in the chosen direction (buy or sell). For this purpose, the technique of causal inference and machine learning are used.
Gain An Edge Over Any Market (Part IV): CBOE Euro And Gold Volatility Indexes
We will analyze alternative data curated by the Chicago Board Of Options Exchange (CBOE) to improve the accuracy of our deep neural networks when forecasting the XAUEUR symbol.
From Novice to Expert: Backend Operations Monitor using MQL5
Using a ready-made solution in trading without concerning yourself with the internal workings of the system may sound comforting, but this is not always the case for developers. Eventually, an upgrade, misperformance, or unexpected error will arise, and it becomes essential to trace exactly where the issue originates to diagnose and resolve it quickly. Today’s discussion focuses on uncovering what normally happens behind the scenes of a trading Expert Advisor, and on developing a custom dedicated class for displaying and logging backend processes using MQL5. This gives both developers and traders the ability to quickly locate errors, monitor behavior, and access diagnostic information specific to each EA.
Developing a Replay System (Part 37): Paving the Path (I)
In this article, we will finally begin to do what we wanted to do much earlier. However, due to the lack of "solid ground", I did not feel confident to present this part publicly. Now I have the basis to do this. I suggest that you focus as much as possible on understanding the content of this article. I mean not simply reading it. I want to emphasize that if you do not understand this article, you can completely give up hope of understanding the content of the following ones.
Exploring Machine Learning in Unidirectional Trend Trading Using Gold as a Case Study
This article discusses an approach to trading only in the chosen direction (buy or sell). For this purpose, the technique of causal inference and machine learning are used.
MQL5 Wizard Techniques you should know (Part 28): GANs Revisited with a Primer on Learning Rates
The Learning Rate, is a step size towards a training target in many machine learning algorithms’ training processes. We examine the impact its many schedules and formats can have on the performance of a Generative Adversarial Network, a type of neural network that we had examined in an earlier article.
Risk Management (Part 5): Integrating the Risk Management System into an Expert Advisor
In this article, we will implement the risk management system developed in previous publications and add the Order Blocks indicator described in other articles. In addition, we will run a backtest so we can compare results with the risk management system enabled and evaluate the impact of dynamic risk.
Automating Market Memory Zones Indicator: Where Price is Likely to Return
This article turns Market Memory Zones from a chart-only concept into a complete MQL5 Expert Advisor. It automates Displacement, Structure Transition (CHoCH), and Liquidity Sweep zones using ATR- and candle-structure filters, applies lower-timeframe confirmation, and enforces risk-based position sizing with dynamic SL and structure-based TP. You will get the code architecture for detection, entries, trade management, and visualization, plus a brief backtest review.
DoEasy. Controls (Part 11): WinForms objects — groups, CheckedListBox WinForms object
The article considers grouping WinForms objects and creation of the CheckBox objects list object.
From Basic to Intermediate: Variables (I)
Many beginning programmers have a hard time understanding why their code doesn't work as they expect. There are many things that make code truly functional. It's not just a bunch of different functions and operations that make the code work. Today I invite you to learn how to properly create real code, rather than copy and paste fragments of it. The materials presented here are for didactic purposes only. Under no circumstances should the application be viewed for any purpose other than to learn and master the concepts presented.
Neural Networks in Trading: Directional Diffusion Models (DDM)
In this article, we discuss Directional Diffusion Models that exploit data-dependent anisotropic and directed noise in a forward diffusion process to capture meaningful graph representations.
MQL5 Wizard Techniques you should know (Part 67): Using Patterns of TRIX and the Williams Percent Range
The Triple Exponential Moving Average Oscillator (TRIX) and the Williams Percentage Range Oscillator are another pair of indicators that could be used in conjunction within an MQL5 Expert Advisor. This indicator pair, like those we’ve covered recently, is also complementary given that TRIX defines the trend while Williams Percent Range affirms support and Resistance levels. As always, we use the MQL5 wizard to prototype any potential these two may have.
Developing a Replay System — Market simulation (Part 19): Necessary adjustments
Here we will prepare the ground so that if we need to add new functions to the code, this will happen smoothly and easily. The current code cannot yet cover or handle some of the things that will be necessary to make meaningful progress. We need everything to be structured in order to enable the implementation of certain things with the minimal effort. If we do everything correctly, we can get a truly universal system that can very easily adapt to any situation that needs to be handled.
Neural Networks in Trading: Controlled Segmentation
In this article. we will discuss a method of complex multimodal interaction analysis and feature understanding.
Developing a Replay System (Part 51): Things Get Complicated (III)
In this article, we will look into one of the most difficult issues in the field of MQL5 programming: how to correctly obtain a chart ID, and why objects are sometimes not plotted on the chart. The materials presented here are for didactic purposes only. Under no circumstances should the application be viewed for any purpose other than to learn and master the concepts presented.
Developing A Swing Entries Monitoring (EA)
As the year approaches its end, long-term traders often reflect on market history to analyze its behavior and trends, aiming to project potential future movements. In this article, we will explore the development of a long-term entry monitoring Expert Advisor (EA) using MQL5. The objective is to address the challenge of missed long-term trading opportunities caused by manual trading and the absence of automated monitoring systems. We'll use one of the most prominently traded pairs as an example to strategize and develop our solution effectively.
Neural Networks in Trading: Hybrid Graph Sequence Models (Final Part)
We continue exploring hybrid graph sequence models (GSM++), which integrate the advantages of different architectures, providing high analysis accuracy and efficient distribution of computing resources. These models effectively identify hidden patterns, reducing the impact of market noise and improving forecasting quality.
MQL5 Wizard Techniques you should know (Part 43): Reinforcement Learning with SARSA
SARSA, which is an abbreviation for State-Action-Reward-State-Action is another algorithm that can be used when implementing reinforcement learning. So, as we saw with Q-Learning and DQN, we look into how this could be explored and implemented as an independent model rather than just a training mechanism, in wizard assembled Expert Advisors.
Superposition and Interference of Financial Securities
The more factors influence the behavior of a currency pair, the more difficult it is to evaluate its behavior and make up future forecasts. Therefore, if we managed to extract components of a currency pair, values of a national currency that change with the time, we could considerably delimit the freedom of national currency movement as compared to the currency pair with this currency, as well as the number of factors influencing its behavior. As a result we would increase the accuracy of its behavior estimation and future forecasting. How can we do that?
MQL5 Wizard Techniques you should know (Part 51): Reinforcement Learning with SAC
Soft Actor Critic is a Reinforcement Learning algorithm that utilizes 3 neural networks. An actor network and 2 critic networks. These machine learning models are paired in a master slave partnership where the critics are modelled to improve the forecast accuracy of the actor network. While also introducing ONNX in these series, we explore how these ideas could be put to test as a custom signal of a wizard assembled Expert Advisor.
Overcoming The Limitation of Machine Learning (Part 6): Effective Memory Cross Validation
In this discussion, we contrast the classical approach to time series cross-validation with modern alternatives that challenge its core assumptions. We expose key blind spots in the traditional method—especially its failure to account for evolving market conditions. To address these gaps, we introduce Effective Memory Cross-Validation (EMCV), a domain-aware approach that questions the long-held belief that more historical data always improves performance.
From Novice to Expert: Animated News Headline Using MQL5 (VIII) — Quick Trade Buttons for News Trading
While algorithmic trading systems manage automated operations, many news traders and scalpers prefer active control during high-impact news events and fast-paced market conditions, requiring rapid order execution and management. This underscores the need for intuitive front-end tools that integrate real-time news feeds, economic calendar data, indicator insights, AI-driven analytics, and responsive trading controls.
Category Theory in MQL5 (Part 10): Monoid Groups
This article continues the series on category theory implementation in MQL5. Here we look at monoid-groups as a means normalising monoid sets making them more comparable across a wider span of monoid sets and data types..
Developing a Replay System (Part 54): The Birth of the First Module
In this article, we will look at how to put together the first of a number of truly functional modules for use in the replay/simulator system that will also be of general purpose to serve other purposes. We are talking about the mouse module.
Reimagining Classic Strategies in MQL5 (Part III): FTSE 100 Forecasting
In this series of articles, we will revisit well-known trading strategies to inquire, whether we can improve the strategies using AI. In today's article, we will explore the FTSE 100 and attempt to forecast the index using a portion of the individual stocks that make up the index.
Fibonacci in Forex (Part I): Examining the Price-Time Relationship
How does the market observe Fibonacci-based relationships? This sequence, where each subsequent number is equal to the sum of the two previous ones (1, 1, 2, 3, 5, 8, 13, 21...), not only describes the growth of the rabbit population. We will consider the Pythagorean hypothesis that everything in the world is subject to certain relationships of numbers...
MQL5 Wizard Techniques you should know (Part 49): Reinforcement Learning with Proximal Policy Optimization
Proximal Policy Optimization is another algorithm in reinforcement learning that updates the policy, often in network form, in very small incremental steps to ensure the model stability. We examine how this could be of use, as we have with previous articles, in a wizard assembled Expert Advisor.
Risk-Based Trade Placement EA with On-Chart UI (Part 1): Designing the User Interface
Learn how to build a clean and professional on-chart control panel in MQL5 for a Risk-Based Trade Placement Expert Advisor. This step-by-step guide explains how to design a functional GUI that allows traders to input trade parameters, calculate lot size, and prepare for automated order placement.
Category Theory in MQL5 (Part 23): A different look at the Double Exponential Moving Average
In this article we continue with our theme in the last of tackling everyday trading indicators viewed in a ‘new’ light. We are handling horizontal composition of natural transformations for this piece and the best indicator for this, that expands on what we just covered, is the double exponential moving average (DEMA).
MQL5 Wizard Techniques you should know (Part 72): Using Patterns of MACD and the OBV with Supervised Learning
We follow up on our last article, where we introduced the indicator pair of the MACD and the OBV, by looking at how this pairing could be enhanced with Machine Learning. MACD and OBV are a trend and volume complimentary pairing. Our machine learning approach uses a convolution neural network that engages the Exponential kernel in sizing its kernels and channels, when fine-tuning the forecasts of this indicator pairing. As always, this is done in a custom signal class file that works with the MQL5 wizard to assemble an Expert Advisor.
Neural networks made easy (Part 72): Trajectory prediction in noisy environments
The quality of future state predictions plays an important role in the Goal-Conditioned Predictive Coding method, which we discussed in the previous article. In this article I want to introduce you to an algorithm that can significantly improve the prediction quality in stochastic environments, such as financial markets.
Custom Debugging and Profiling Tools for MQL5 Development (Part I): Advanced Logging
Learn how to implement a powerful custom logging framework for MQL5 that goes beyond simple Print() statements by supporting severity levels, multiple output handlers, and automated file rotation—all configurable on‐the‐fly. Integrate the singleton CLogger with ConsoleLogHandler and FileLogHandler to capture contextual, timestamped logs in both the Experts tab and persistent files. Streamline debugging and performance tracing in your Expert Advisors with clear, customizable log formats and centralized control.
Implementing Practical Modules from Other Languages in MQL5 (Part 03): Schedule Module from Python, the OnTimer Event on Steroids
The schedule module in Python offers a simple way to schedule repeated tasks. While MQL5 lacks a built-in equivalent, in this article we’ll implement a similar library to make it easier to set up timed events in MetaTrader 5.
Building A Candlestick Trend Constraint Model (Part 5): Notification System (Part II)
Today, we are discussing a working Telegram integration for MetaTrader 5 Indicator notifications using the power of MQL5, in partnership with Python and the Telegram Bot API. We will explain everything in detail so that no one misses any point. By the end of this project, you will have gained valuable insights to apply in your projects.