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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Developing a multi-currency Expert Advisor (Part 24): Adding a new strategy (II)

Developing a multi-currency Expert Advisor (Part 24): Adding a new strategy (II)

In this article, we will continue to connect the new strategy to the created auto optimization system. Let's look at what changes need to be made to the optimization project creation EA, as well as the second and third stage EAs.
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MQL5 Trading Tools (Part 23): Camera-Controlled, DirectX-Enabled 3D Graphs for Distribution Insights

MQL5 Trading Tools (Part 23): Camera-Controlled, DirectX-Enabled 3D Graphs for Distribution Insights

In this article, we advance the binomial distribution graphing tool in MQL5 by integrating DirectX for 3D visualization, enabling switchable 2D/3D modes with camera-controlled rotation, zoom, and auto-fitting for immersive analysis. We render 3D histogram bars, ground planes, and axes alongside the theoretical probability mass function curve, while preserving 2D elements like statistics panels, legends, and customizable themes, gradients, and labels
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Feature Engineering for ML (Part 1): Fractional Differentiation — Stationarity Without Memory Loss

Feature Engineering for ML (Part 1): Fractional Differentiation — Stationarity Without Memory Loss

Integer differentiation forces a binary choice between stationarity and memory: returns (d=1) are stationary but discard all price-level information; raw prices (d=0) preserve memory but violate ML stationarity assumptions. We implement the fixed-width fractional differentiation (FFD) method from AFML Chapter 5, covering get_weights_ffd (iterative recurrence with threshold cutoff), frac_diff_ffd (bounded dot product per bar), and fracdiff_optimal (binary search for minimum stationary d*).
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Mastering Log Records (Part 4): Saving logs to files

Mastering Log Records (Part 4): Saving logs to files

In this article, I will teach you basic file operations and how to configure a flexible handler for customization. We will update the CLogifyHandlerFile class to write logs directly to the file. We will conduct a performance test by simulating a strategy on EURUSD for a week, generating logs at each tick, with a total time of 5 minutes and 11 seconds. The result will be compared in a future article, where we will implement a caching system to improve performance.
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MQL5 Trading Tools (Part 22): Graphing the Histogram and Probability Mass Function (PMF) of the Binomial Distribution

MQL5 Trading Tools (Part 22): Graphing the Histogram and Probability Mass Function (PMF) of the Binomial Distribution

This article develops an interactive MQL5 plot for the binomial distribution, combining a histogram of simulated outcomes with the theoretical probability mass function. It implements mean, standard deviation, skewness, kurtosis, percentiles, and confidence intervals, along with configurable themes and labels, and supports dragging, resizing, and live parameter changes. Use it to assess expected wins, likely drawdowns, and confidence ranges when validating trading strategies.
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Market Simulation (Part 13): Sockets (VII)

Market Simulation (Part 13): Sockets (VII)

When we develop something in xlwings or any other package that allows reading and writing directly to Excel, we must note that all programs, functions, or procedures execute and then complete their task. They do not remain in a loop, no matter how hard we try to do things differently.
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MQL5 Wizard Techniques you should know (Part 89): Using Bitwise Vectorization with Perceptron Classifiers

MQL5 Wizard Techniques you should know (Part 89): Using Bitwise Vectorization with Perceptron Classifiers

This article presents a custom MQL5 signal class, CSignalBitwisePerceptron, for ultra-lightweight entry logic. It packs 64 bars into a single uint64 via bitwise vectorization and evaluates them with a perceptron that sums weights only for active bits. A two-gate flow (algorithmic hash map plus neural threshold) minimizes array iteration and heavy math. Readers get a practical template to cut latency and refine entry validation.
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From Novice to Expert: Animated News Headline Using MQL5 (XI)—Correlation in News Trading

From Novice to Expert: Animated News Headline Using MQL5 (XI)—Correlation in News Trading

In this discussion, we will explore how the concept of Financial Correlation can be applied to improve decision-making efficiency when trading multiple symbols during major economic events announcement. The focus is on addressing the challenge of heightened risk exposure caused by increased volatility during news releases.
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MQL5 Wizard Techniques you should know (Part 41): Deep-Q-Networks

MQL5 Wizard Techniques you should know (Part 41): Deep-Q-Networks

The Deep-Q-Network is a reinforcement learning algorithm that engages neural networks in projecting the next Q-value and ideal action during the training process of a machine learning module. We have already considered an alternative reinforcement learning algorithm, Q-Learning. This article therefore presents another example of how an MLP trained with reinforcement learning, can be used within a custom signal class.
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Forex Arbitrage Trading: Relationship Assessment Panel

Forex Arbitrage Trading: Relationship Assessment Panel

This article presents the development of an arbitrage analysis panel in MQL5. How to get fair exchange rates on Forex in different ways? Create an indicator to obtain deviations of market prices from fair exchange rates, as well as to assess the benefits of arbitrage ways of exchanging one currency for another (as in triangular arbitrage).
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Chemical reaction optimization (CRO) algorithm (Part II): Assembling and results

Chemical reaction optimization (CRO) algorithm (Part II): Assembling and results

In the second part, we will collect chemical operators into a single algorithm and present a detailed analysis of its results. Let's find out how the Chemical reaction optimization (CRO) method copes with solving complex problems on test functions.
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Creating a Trading Administrator Panel in MQL5 (Part IV): Login Security Layer

Creating a Trading Administrator Panel in MQL5 (Part IV): Login Security Layer

Imagine a malicious actor infiltrating the Trading Administrator room, gaining access to the computers and the Admin Panel used to communicate valuable insights to millions of traders worldwide. Such an intrusion could lead to disastrous consequences, such as the unauthorized sending of misleading messages or random clicks on buttons that trigger unintended actions. In this discussion, we will explore the security measures in MQL5 and the new security features we have implemented in our Admin Panel to safeguard against these threats. By enhancing our security protocols, we aim to protect our communication channels and maintain the trust of our global trading community. Find more insights in this article discussion.
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Neural Networks Made Easy (Part 81): Context-Guided Motion Analysis (CCMR)

Neural Networks Made Easy (Part 81): Context-Guided Motion Analysis (CCMR)

In previous works, we always assessed the current state of the environment. At the same time, the dynamics of changes in indicators always remained "behind the scenes". In this article I want to introduce you to an algorithm that allows you to evaluate the direct change in data between 2 successive environmental states.
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The base class of population algorithms as the backbone of efficient optimization

The base class of population algorithms as the backbone of efficient optimization

The article represents a unique research attempt to combine a variety of population algorithms into a single class to simplify the application of optimization methods. This approach not only opens up opportunities for the development of new algorithms, including hybrid variants, but also creates a universal basic test stand. This stand becomes a key tool for choosing the optimal algorithm depending on a specific task.
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Artificial Cooperative Search (ACS) algorithm

Artificial Cooperative Search (ACS) algorithm

Artificial Cooperative Search (ACS) is an innovative method using a binary matrix and multiple dynamic populations based on mutualistic relationships and cooperation to find optimal solutions quickly and accurately. ACS unique approach to predators and prey enables it to achieve excellent results in numerical optimization problems.
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Neural Networks in Trading: Time Series Forecasting Using Adaptive Modal Decomposition (ACEFormer)

Neural Networks in Trading: Time Series Forecasting Using Adaptive Modal Decomposition (ACEFormer)

We invite you to explore the ACEFormer architecture — a modern solution that combines the effectiveness of probabilistic attention with adaptive time series decomposition. This article will be useful for those seeking a balance between computational performance and forecast accuracy in financial markets.
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Neural networks made easy (Part 79): Feature Aggregated Queries (FAQ) in the context of state

Neural networks made easy (Part 79): Feature Aggregated Queries (FAQ) in the context of state

In the previous article, we got acquainted with one of the methods for detecting objects in an image. However, processing a static image is somewhat different from working with dynamic time series, such as the dynamics of the prices we analyze. In this article, we will consider the method of detecting objects in video, which is somewhat closer to the problem we are solving.
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Developing a Replay System (Part 36): Making Adjustments (II)

Developing a Replay System (Part 36): Making Adjustments (II)

One of the things that can make our lives as programmers difficult is assumptions. In this article, I will show you how dangerous it is to make assumptions: both in MQL5 programming, where you assume that the type will have a certain value, and in MetaTrader 5, where you assume that different servers work the same.
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Three MACD Filters on US_TECH100: Five Years of Broker Data

Three MACD Filters on US_TECH100: Five Years of Broker Data

This article tests three common filters on a standard MACD crossover for US_TECH100 H1 using five years of broker-native data. Filters are layered incrementally: regime, higher timeframe (HTF) alignment, and US session timing, to isolate each one's marginal impact. Results show session timing contributes far more than indicator refinements, while regime and HTF add little on their own. Includes a reproducible MQL5 regime classifier.
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Reimagining Classic Strategies: Crude Oil

Reimagining Classic Strategies: Crude Oil

In this article, we revisit a classic crude oil trading strategy with the aim of enhancing it by leveraging supervised machine learning algorithms. We will construct a least-squares model to predict future Brent crude oil prices based on the spread between Brent and WTI crude oil prices. Our goal is to identify a leading indicator of future changes in Brent prices.
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The View and Controller components for tables in the MQL5 MVC paradigm: Simple controls

The View and Controller components for tables in the MQL5 MVC paradigm: Simple controls

The article covers simple controls as components of more complex graphical elements of the View component within the framework of table implementation in the MVC (Model-View-Controller) paradigm. The basic functionality of the Controller is implemented for interaction of elements with the user and with each other. This is the second article on the View component and the fourth one in a series of articles on creating tables for the MetaTrader 5 client terminal.
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Developing a multi-currency Expert Advisor (Part 7): Selecting a group based on forward period

Developing a multi-currency Expert Advisor (Part 7): Selecting a group based on forward period

Previously, we evaluated the selection of a group of trading strategy instances, with the aim of improving the results of their joint operation, only on the same time period, in which the optimization of individual instances was carried out. Let's see what happens in the forward period.
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Data Science and ML (Part 45): Forex Time series forecasting using PROPHET by Facebook Model

Data Science and ML (Part 45): Forex Time series forecasting using PROPHET by Facebook Model

The Prophet model, developed by Facebook, is a robust time series forecasting tool designed to capture trends, seasonality, and holiday effects with minimal manual tuning. It has been widely adopted for demand forecasting and business planning. In this article, we explore the effectiveness of Prophet in forecasting volatility in forex instruments, showcasing how it can be applied beyond traditional business use cases.
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Introduction to MQL5 (Part 28): Mastering API and WebRequest Function in MQL5 (II)

Introduction to MQL5 (Part 28): Mastering API and WebRequest Function in MQL5 (II)

This article teaches you how to retrieve and extract price data from external platforms using APIs and the WebRequest function in MQL5. You’ll learn how URLs are structured, how API responses are formatted, how to convert server data into readable strings, and how to identify and extract specific values from JSON responses.
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Developing an MQTT client for Metatrader 5: a TDD approach — Part 4

Developing an MQTT client for Metatrader 5: a TDD approach — Part 4

This article is the fourth part of a series describing our development steps of a native MQL5 client for the MQTT protocol. In this part, we describe what MQTT v5.0 Properties are, their semantics, how we are reading some of them, and provide a brief example of how Properties can be used to extend the protocol.
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MQL5 Wizard Techniques you should know (Part 66): Using Patterns of FrAMA and the Force Index with the Dot Product Kernel

MQL5 Wizard Techniques you should know (Part 66): Using Patterns of FrAMA and the Force Index with the Dot Product Kernel

The FrAMA Indicator and the Force Index Oscillator are trend and volume tools that could be paired when developing an Expert Advisor. We continue from our last article that introduced this pair by considering machine learning applicability to the pair. We are using a convolution neural network that uses the dot-product kernel in making forecasts with these indicators’ inputs. This is done in a custom signal class file that works with the MQL5 wizard to assemble an Expert Advisor.
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MetaTrader 5 Machine Learning Blueprint (Part 7): From Scattered Experiments to Reproducible Results

MetaTrader 5 Machine Learning Blueprint (Part 7): From Scattered Experiments to Reproducible Results

In the latest installment of this series, we move beyond individual machine learning techniques to address the "Research Chaos" that plagues many quantitative traders. This article focuses on the transition from ad-hoc notebook experiments to a principled, production-grade pipeline that ensures reproducibility, traceability, and efficiency.
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Integrating MQL5 with data processing packages (Part 1): Advanced Data analysis and Statistical Processing

Integrating MQL5 with data processing packages (Part 1): Advanced Data analysis and Statistical Processing

Integration enables seamless workflow where raw financial data from MQL5 can be imported into data processing packages like Jupyter Lab for advanced analysis including statistical testing.
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Gain an Edge Over Any Market (Part III): Visa Spending Index

Gain an Edge Over Any Market (Part III): Visa Spending Index

In the world of big data, there are millions of alternative datasets that hold the potential to enhance our trading strategies. In this series of articles, we will help you identify the most informative public datasets.
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Developing a multi-currency Expert Advisor (Part 23): Putting in order the conveyor of automatic project optimization stages (II)

Developing a multi-currency Expert Advisor (Part 23): Putting in order the conveyor of automatic project optimization stages (II)

We aim to create a system for automatic periodic optimization of trading strategies used in one final EA. As the system evolves, it becomes increasingly complex, so it is necessary to look at it as a whole from time to time in order to identify bottlenecks and suboptimal solutions.
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Developing a Replay System (Part 31): Expert Advisor project — C_Mouse class (V)

Developing a Replay System (Part 31): Expert Advisor project — C_Mouse class (V)

We need a timer that can show how much time is left till the end of the replay/simulation run. This may seem at first glance to be a simple and quick solution. Many simply try to adapt and use the same system that the trading server uses. But there's one thing that many people don't consider when thinking about this solution: with replay, and even m ore with simulation, the clock works differently. All this complicates the creation of such a system.
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Causal analysis of time series using transfer entropy

Causal analysis of time series using transfer entropy

In this article, we discuss how statistical causality can be applied to identify predictive variables. We will explore the link between causality and transfer entropy, as well as present MQL5 code for detecting directional transfers of information between two variables.
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Interactive Supply and Demand Zone Manager in MQL5 (Part I): From Manual to Automated Lifecycle

Interactive Supply and Demand Zone Manager in MQL5 (Part I): From Manual to Automated Lifecycle

Replace static drawings with automated, stateful zones controlled by a CZone wrapper. The system synchronizes user rectangles, sizes zones by ATR, validates breakouts using consecutive closes, applies ghost/deactivation rules, merges nearby structures by a 1.5×ATR threshold, and projects edges forward. Traders gain durable levels that update themselves and reduce repetitive chart management.
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Integrating MQL5 with Data Processing Packages (Part 7): Building Multi-Agent Environments for Cross-Symbol Collaboration

Integrating MQL5 with Data Processing Packages (Part 7): Building Multi-Agent Environments for Cross-Symbol Collaboration

The article presents a complete Python–MQL5 integration for multi‑agent trading: MT5 data ingestion, indicator computation, per‑agent decisions, and a weighted consensus that outputs a single action. Signals are stored to JSON, served by Flask, and consumed by an MQL5 Expert Advisor for execution with position sizing and ATR‑derived SL/TP. Flask routes provide safe lifecycle control and status monitoring.
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Visual assessment and adjustment of trading in MetaTrader 5

Visual assessment and adjustment of trading in MetaTrader 5

The strategy tester allows you to do more than just optimize your trading robot's parameters. I will show how to evaluate your account's trading history post-factum and make adjustments to your trading in the tester by changing the stop-losses of your open positions.
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MQL5 Wizard Techniques you should know (Part 82): Using Patterns of TRIX and the WPR with DQN Reinforcement Learning

MQL5 Wizard Techniques you should know (Part 82): Using Patterns of TRIX and the WPR with DQN Reinforcement Learning

In the last article, we examined the pairing of Ichimoku and the ADX under an Inference Learning framework. For this piece we revisit, Reinforcement Learning when used with an indicator pairing we considered last in ‘Part 68’. The TRIX and Williams Percent Range. Our algorithm for this review will be the Quantile Regression DQN. As usual, we present this as a custom signal class designed for implementation with the MQL5 Wizard.
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Statistical Arbitrage Through Cointegrated Stocks (Part 8): Rolling Windows Eigenvector Comparison for Portfolio Rebalancing

Statistical Arbitrage Through Cointegrated Stocks (Part 8): Rolling Windows Eigenvector Comparison for Portfolio Rebalancing

This article proposes using Rolling Windows Eigenvector Comparison for early imbalance diagnostics and portfolio rebalancing in a mean-reversion statistical arbitrage strategy based on cointegrated stocks. It contrasts this technique with traditional In-Sample/Out-of-Sample ADF validation, showing that eigenvector shifts can signal the need for rebalancing even when IS/OOS ADF still indicates a stationary spread. While the method is intended mainly for live trading monitoring, the article concludes that eigenvector comparison could also be integrated into the scoring system—though its actual contribution to performance remains to be tested.
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3D Visualization Without External Libraries: How MetaTrader 5 Reveals Optimization Results via MQL5 + DX11

3D Visualization Without External Libraries: How MetaTrader 5 Reveals Optimization Results via MQL5 + DX11

The article describes the practical application of DirectX 11 and built-in MQL5 tools for creating 3D visualizations and interactive interfaces in MetaTrader 5. The focus is on cognitive efficiency - the ability of 3D charts and guided scenes to help in understanding optimization data, liquidity clusters, and multi-dimensional trading scenarios. The basics of the DX pipeline, working with shaders, binding mouse and keyboard events, and objective technological limitations are discussed in detail. The article is intended for MQL5 developers and algorithmic traders who are ready to transform strategy metrics into understandable 3D analytical landscapes, where the visual layer accelerates decision-making.
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Low-Frequency Quantitative Strategies in MetaTrader 5 (Part 3): A Regime-Adaptive Mean-Reversion Swing Trading System

Low-Frequency Quantitative Strategies in MetaTrader 5 (Part 3): A Regime-Adaptive Mean-Reversion Swing Trading System

The article describes and codes MR Swing in MQL5, a mean‑reversion swing approach that combines a 200‑day hysteresis channel with Value Charts, DVO, and SVAPO. We document entry/exit rules for bull and bear regimes and show five‑year backtests on six high‑liquidity Nasdaq stocks. The complete EA code and backtest configurations are provided for reproducibility.
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Permuting price bars in MQL5

Permuting price bars in MQL5

In this article we present an algorithm for permuting price bars and detail how permutation tests can be used to recognize instances where strategy performance has been fabricated to deceive potential buyers of Expert Advisors.