Articles with MQL5 programming examples

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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.

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Developing a Replay System (Part 33): Order System (II)

Developing a Replay System (Part 33): Order System (II)

Today we will continue to develop the order system. As you will see, we will be massively reusing what has already been shown in other articles. Nevertheless, you will receive a small reward in this article. First, we will develop a system that can be used with a real trading server, both from a demo account or from a real one. We will make extensive use of the MetaTrader 5 platform, which will provide us with all the necessary support from the beginning.
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Robustness Testing on Expert Advisors

Robustness Testing on Expert Advisors

In strategy development, there are many intricate details to consider, many of which are not highlighted for beginner traders. As a result, many traders, myself included, have had to learn these lessons the hard way. This article is based on my observations of common pitfalls that most beginner traders encounter when developing strategies on MQL5. It will offer a range of tips, tricks, and examples to help identify the disqualification of an EA and test the robustness of our own EAs in an easy-to-implement way. The goal is to educate readers, helping them avoid future scams when purchasing EAs as well as preventing mistakes in their own strategy development.
All about Automated Trading Championship: Interviews with the Participants'06
All about Automated Trading Championship: Interviews with the Participants'06

All about Automated Trading Championship: Interviews with the Participants'06

Interviews with the Participants of Automated Trading Championship 2006 demonstrated a great variety of views of automated trading and trading as a whole. You can see yourselves which ideas turned out to work better during the Championship and which of them could not pass the critical verification through a three-month long "test-drive" on a contest account.
Method of Determining Errors in Code by Commenting
Method of Determining Errors in Code by Commenting

Method of Determining Errors in Code by Commenting

The article describes a method of searching the errors in the MQL4 code that is based on commenting. This method is found to be a useful one in case of problems occuring during the compilation caused by the errors in a reasonably large code.
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HTTP and Connexus (Part 2): Understanding HTTP Architecture and Library Design

HTTP and Connexus (Part 2): Understanding HTTP Architecture and Library Design

This article explores the fundamentals of the HTTP protocol, covering the main methods (GET, POST, PUT, DELETE), status codes and the structure of URLs. In addition, it presents the beginning of the construction of the Conexus library with the CQueryParam and CURL classes, which facilitate the manipulation of URLs and query parameters in HTTP requests.
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Creating a Trading Administrator Panel in MQL5 (Part III): Extending Built-in Classes for Theme Management (II)

Creating a Trading Administrator Panel in MQL5 (Part III): Extending Built-in Classes for Theme Management (II)

In this discussion, we will carefully extend the existing Dialog library to incorporate theme management logic. Furthermore, we will integrate methods for theme switching into the CDialog, CEdit, and CButton classes utilized in our Admin Panel project. Continue reading for more insightful perspectives.
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Hybridization of population algorithms. Sequential and parallel structures

Hybridization of population algorithms. Sequential and parallel structures

Here we will dive into the world of hybridization of optimization algorithms by looking at three key types: strategy mixing, sequential and parallel hybridization. We will conduct a series of experiments combining and testing relevant optimization algorithms.
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Anarchic Society Optimization (ASO) algorithm

Anarchic Society Optimization (ASO) algorithm

In this article, we will get acquainted with the Anarchic Society Optimization (ASO) algorithm and discuss how an algorithm based on the irrational and adventurous behavior of participants in an anarchic society (an anomalous system of social interaction free from centralized power and various kinds of hierarchies) is able to explore the solution space and avoid the traps of local optimum. The article presents a unified ASO structure applicable to both continuous and discrete problems.
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Resampling techniques for prediction and classification assessment in MQL5

Resampling techniques for prediction and classification assessment in MQL5

In this article, we will explore and implement, methods for assessing model quality that utilize a single dataset as both training and validation sets.
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Developing A Swing Entries Monitoring (EA)

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.
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Population optimization algorithms: Boids Algorithm

Population optimization algorithms: Boids Algorithm

The article considers Boids algorithm based on unique examples of animal flocking behavior. In turn, the Boids algorithm serves as the basis for the creation of the whole class of algorithms united under the name "Swarm Intelligence".
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Requesting in Connexus (Part 6): Creating an HTTP Request and Response

Requesting in Connexus (Part 6): Creating an HTTP Request and Response

In this sixth article of the Connexus library series, we will focus on a complete HTTP request, covering each component that makes up a request. We will create a class that represents the request as a whole, which will help us bring together the previously created classes.
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Self Optimizing Expert Advisor With MQL5 And Python (Part VI): Taking Advantage of Deep Double Descent

Self Optimizing Expert Advisor With MQL5 And Python (Part VI): Taking Advantage of Deep Double Descent

Traditional machine learning teaches practitioners to be vigilant not to overfit their models. However, this ideology is being challenged by new insights published by diligent researches from Harvard, who have discovered that what appears to be overfitting may in some circumstances be the results of terminating your training procedures prematurely. We will demonstrate how we can use the ideas published in the research paper, to improve our use of AI in forecasting market returns.
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Price Action Analysis Toolkit Development (Part 18): Introducing Quarters Theory (III) — Quarters Board

Price Action Analysis Toolkit Development (Part 18): Introducing Quarters Theory (III) — Quarters Board

In this article, we enhance the original Quarters Script by introducing the Quarters Board, a tool that lets you toggle quarter levels directly on the chart without needing to revisit the code. You can easily activate or deactivate specific levels, and the EA also provides trend direction commentary to help you better understand market movements.
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Population optimization algorithms: Spiral Dynamics Optimization (SDO) algorithm

Population optimization algorithms: Spiral Dynamics Optimization (SDO) algorithm

The article presents an optimization algorithm based on the patterns of constructing spiral trajectories in nature, such as mollusk shells - the spiral dynamics optimization (SDO) algorithm. I have thoroughly revised and modified the algorithm proposed by the authors. The article will consider the necessity of these changes.
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Creating a Trading Administrator Panel in MQL5 (Part IX): Code Organization (III): Communication Module

Creating a Trading Administrator Panel in MQL5 (Part IX): Code Organization (III): Communication Module

Join us for an in-depth discussion on the latest advancements in MQL5 interface design as we unveil the redesigned Communications Panel and continue our series on building the New Admin Panel using modularization principles. We'll develop the CommunicationsDialog class step by step, thoroughly explaining how to inherit it from the Dialog class. Additionally, we'll leverage arrays and ListView class in our development. Gain actionable insights to elevate your MQL5 development skills—read through the article and join the discussion in the comments section!
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Ordinal Encoding for Nominal Variables

Ordinal Encoding for Nominal Variables

In this article, we discuss and demonstrate how to convert nominal predictors into numerical formats that are suitable for machine learning algorithms, using both Python and MQL5.
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Creating a Trading Administrator Panel in MQL5 (Part IX): Code Organization (V): AnalyticsPanel Class

Creating a Trading Administrator Panel in MQL5 (Part IX): Code Organization (V): AnalyticsPanel Class

In this discussion, we explore how to retrieve real-time market data and trading account information, perform various calculations, and display the results on a custom panel. To achieve this, we will dive deeper into developing an AnalyticsPanel class that encapsulates all these features, including panel creation. This effort is part of our ongoing expansion of the New Admin Panel EA, introducing advanced functionalities using modular design principles and best practices for code organization.
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Creating a Trading Administrator Panel in MQL5 (Part IX): Code Organization (I)

Creating a Trading Administrator Panel in MQL5 (Part IX): Code Organization (I)

This discussion delves into the challenges encountered when working with large codebases. We will explore the best practices for code organization in MQL5 and implement a practical approach to enhance the readability and scalability of our Trading Administrator Panel source code. Additionally, we aim to develop reusable code components that can potentially benefit other developers in their algorithm development. Read on and join the conversation.
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Developing a Replay System (Part 67): Refining the Control Indicator

Developing a Replay System (Part 67): Refining the Control Indicator

In this article, we'll look at what can be achieved with a little code refinement. This refinement is aimed at simplifying our code, making more use of MQL5 library calls and, above all, making it much more stable, secure and easy to use in other projects that we may develop in the future.
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Population optimization algorithms: Evolution Strategies, (μ,λ)-ES and (μ+λ)-ES

Population optimization algorithms: Evolution Strategies, (μ,λ)-ES and (μ+λ)-ES

The article considers a group of optimization algorithms known as Evolution Strategies (ES). They are among the very first population algorithms to use evolutionary principles for finding optimal solutions. We will implement changes to the conventional ES variants and revise the test function and test stand methodology for the algorithms.
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From Basic to Intermediate: IF ELSE

From Basic to Intermediate: IF ELSE

In this article we will discuss how to work with the IF operator and its companion ELSE. This statement is the most important and significant of those existing in any programming language. However, despite its ease of use, it can sometimes be confusing if we have no experience with its use and the concepts associated with it. The content presented here is intended solely for educational purposes. Under no circumstances should the application be viewed for any purpose other than to learn and master the concepts presented.
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Category Theory in MQL5 (Part 11): Graphs

Category Theory in MQL5 (Part 11): Graphs

This article is a continuation in a series that look at Category Theory implementation in MQL5. In here we examine how Graph-Theory could be integrated with monoids and other data structures when developing a close-out strategy to a trading system.
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Mastering Log Records (Part 7): How to Show Logs on Chart

Mastering Log Records (Part 7): How to Show Logs on Chart

Learn how to display logs directly on the MetaTrader chart in an organized way, with frames, titles and automatic scrolling. In this article, we show you how to create a visual log system using MQL5, ideal for monitoring what your robot is doing in real time.
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Developing a Replay System (Part 52): Things Get Complicated (IV)

Developing a Replay System (Part 52): Things Get Complicated (IV)

In this article, we will change the mouse pointer to enable the interaction with the control indicator to ensure reliable and stable operation.
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Population optimization algorithms: Evolution of Social Groups (ESG)

Population optimization algorithms: Evolution of Social Groups (ESG)

We will consider the principle of constructing multi-population algorithms. As an example of this type of algorithm, we will have a look at the new custom algorithm - Evolution of Social Groups (ESG). We will analyze the basic concepts, population interaction mechanisms and advantages of this algorithm, as well as examine its performance in optimization problems.
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MQL5 Trading Toolkit (Part 4): Developing a History Management EX5 Library

MQL5 Trading Toolkit (Part 4): Developing a History Management EX5 Library

Learn how to retrieve, process, classify, sort, analyze, and manage closed positions, orders, and deal histories using MQL5 by creating an expansive History Management EX5 Library in a detailed step-by-step approach.
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Brain Storm Optimization algorithm (Part I): Clustering

Brain Storm Optimization algorithm (Part I): Clustering

In this article, we will look at an innovative optimization method called BSO (Brain Storm Optimization) inspired by a natural phenomenon called "brainstorming". We will also discuss a new approach to solving multimodal optimization problems the BSO method applies. It allows finding multiple optimal solutions without the need to pre-determine the number of subpopulations. We will also consider the K-Means and K-Means++ clustering methods.
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Feature Engineering With Python And MQL5 (Part III): Angle Of Price (2) Polar Coordinates

Feature Engineering With Python And MQL5 (Part III): Angle Of Price (2) Polar Coordinates

In this article, we take our second attempt to convert the changes in price levels on any market, into a corresponding change in angle. This time around, we selected a more mathematically sophisticated approach than we selected in our first attempt, and the results we obtained suggest that our change in approach may have been the right decision. Join us today, as we discuss how we can use Polar coordinates to calculate the angle formed by changes in price levels, in a meaningful way, regardless of which market you are analyzing.
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Mastering Log Records (Part 1): Fundamental Concepts and First Steps in MQL5

Mastering Log Records (Part 1): Fundamental Concepts and First Steps in MQL5

Welcome to the beginning of another journey! This article opens a special series where we will create, step by step, a library for log manipulation, tailored for those who develop in the MQL5 language.
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From Basic to Intermediate: The Include Directive

From Basic to Intermediate: The Include Directive

In today's article, we will discuss a compilation directive that is widely used in various codes that can be found in MQL5. Although this directive will be explained rather superficially here, it is important that you begin to understand how to use it, as it will soon become indispensable as you move to higher levels of programming. The content presented here is intended solely for educational purposes. Under no circumstances should the application be viewed for any purpose other than to learn and master the concepts presented.
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DoEasy. Controls (Part 33): Vertical ScrollBar

DoEasy. Controls (Part 33): Vertical ScrollBar

In this article, we will continue the development of graphical elements of the DoEasy library and add vertical scrolling of form object controls, as well as some useful functions and methods that will be required in the future.
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Applying Localized Feature Selection in Python and MQL5

Applying Localized Feature Selection in Python and MQL5

This article explores a feature selection algorithm introduced in the paper 'Local Feature Selection for Data Classification' by Narges Armanfard et al. The algorithm is implemented in Python to build binary classifier models that can be integrated with MetaTrader 5 applications for inference.
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Reimagining Classic Strategies (Part IX): Multiple Time Frame Analysis (II)

Reimagining Classic Strategies (Part IX): Multiple Time Frame Analysis (II)

In today's discussion, we examine the strategy of multiple time-frame analysis to learn on which time frame our AI model performs best. Our analysis leads us to conclude that the Monthly and Hourly time-frames produce models with relatively low error rates on the EURUSD pair. We used this to our advantage and created a trading algorithm that makes AI predictions on the Monthly time frame, and executes its trades on the Hourly time frame.
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Across Neighbourhood Search (ANS)

Across Neighbourhood Search (ANS)

The article reveals the potential of the ANS algorithm as an important step in the development of flexible and intelligent optimization methods that can take into account the specifics of the problem and the dynamics of the environment in the search space.
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From Basic to Intermediate: Variables (II)

From Basic to Intermediate: Variables (II)

Today we will look at how to work with static variables. This question often confuses many programmers, both beginners and those with some experience, because there are several recommendations that must be followed when using this mechanism. The materials presented here are intended for didactic purposes only. Under no circumstances should the application be viewed for any purpose other than to learn and master the concepts presented.
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Build Self Optimizing Expert Advisors in MQL5 (Part 7): Trading With Multiple Periods At Once

Build Self Optimizing Expert Advisors in MQL5 (Part 7): Trading With Multiple Periods At Once

In this series of articles, we have considered multiple different ways of identifying the best period to use our technical indicators with. Today, we shall demonstrate to the reader how they can instead perform the opposite logic, that is to say, instead of picking the single best period to use, we will demonstrate to the reader how to employ all available periods effectively. This approach reduces the amount of data discarded, and offers alternative use cases for machine learning algorithms beyond ordinary price prediction.
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Population optimization algorithms: Micro Artificial immune system (Micro-AIS)

Population optimization algorithms: Micro Artificial immune system (Micro-AIS)

The article considers an optimization method based on the principles of the body's immune system - Micro Artificial Immune System (Micro-AIS) - a modification of AIS. Micro-AIS uses a simpler model of the immune system and simple immune information processing operations. The article also discusses the advantages and disadvantages of Micro-AIS compared to conventional AIS.
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Population optimization algorithms: Whale Optimization Algorithm (WOA)

Population optimization algorithms: Whale Optimization Algorithm (WOA)

Whale Optimization Algorithm (WOA) is a metaheuristic algorithm inspired by the behavior and hunting strategies of humpback whales. The main idea of WOA is to mimic the so-called "bubble-net" feeding method, in which whales create bubbles around prey and then attack it in a spiral motion.
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Developing a Replay System (Part 65): Playing the service (VI)

Developing a Replay System (Part 65): Playing the service (VI)

In this article, we will look at how to implement and solve the mouse pointer issue when using it in conjunction with a replay/simulation application. The content presented here is intended solely for educational purposes. Under no circumstances should the application be viewed for any purpose other than to learn and master the concepts presented.