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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Data Science and Machine Learning (Part 10): Ridge Regression

Data Science and Machine Learning (Part 10): Ridge Regression

Ridge regression is a simple technique to reduce model complexity and prevent over-fitting which may result from simple linear regression
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Population optimization algorithms: Ant Colony Optimization (ACO)

Population optimization algorithms: Ant Colony Optimization (ACO)

This time I will analyze the Ant Colony optimization algorithm. The algorithm is very interesting and complex. In the article, I make an attempt to create a new type of ACO.
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Rebuy algorithm: Math model for increasing efficiency

Rebuy algorithm: Math model for increasing efficiency

In this article, we will use the rebuy algorithm for a deeper understanding of the efficiency of trading systems and start working on the general principles of improving trading efficiency using mathematics and logic, as well as apply the most non-standard methods of increasing efficiency in terms of using absolutely any trading system.
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MQL5 Cookbook — Services

MQL5 Cookbook — Services

The article describes the versatile capabilities of services — MQL5 programs that do not require binding graphs. I will also highlight the differences of services from other MQL5 programs and emphasize the nuances of the developer's work with services. As examples, the reader is offered various tasks covering a wide range of functionality that can be implemented as a service.
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Creating an EA that works automatically (Part 04): Manual triggers (I)

Creating an EA that works automatically (Part 04): Manual triggers (I)

Today we'll see how to create an Expert Advisor that simply and safely works in automatic mode.
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Automating Trading Strategies in MQL5 (Part 1): The Profitunity System (Trading Chaos by Bill Williams)

Automating Trading Strategies in MQL5 (Part 1): The Profitunity System (Trading Chaos by Bill Williams)

In this article, we examine the Profitunity System by Bill Williams, breaking down its core components and unique approach to trading within market chaos. We guide readers through implementing the system in MQL5, focusing on automating key indicators and entry/exit signals. Finally, we test and optimize the strategy, providing insights into its performance across various market scenarios.
How to create and test custom MOEX symbols in MetaTrader 5
How to create and test custom MOEX symbols in MetaTrader 5

How to create and test custom MOEX symbols in MetaTrader 5

The article describes the creation of a custom exchange symbol using the MQL5 language. In particular, it considers the use of exchange quotes from the popular Finam website. Another option considered in this article is the possibility to work with an arbitrary format of text files used in the creation of the custom symbol. This allows working with any financial symbols and data sources. After creating a custom symbol, we can use all the capabilities of the MetaTrader 5 Strategy Tester to test trading algorithms for exchange instruments.
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Data Science and Machine Learning (Part 05): Decision Trees

Data Science and Machine Learning (Part 05): Decision Trees

Decision trees imitate the way humans think to classify data. Let's see how to build trees and use them to classify and predict some data. The main goal of the decision trees algorithm is to separate the data with impurity and into pure or close to nodes.
Creating a "Snake" Game in MQL5
Creating a "Snake" Game in MQL5

Creating a "Snake" Game in MQL5

This article describes an example of "Snake" game programming. In MQL5, the game programming became possible primarily due to event handling features. The object-oriented programming greatly simplifies this process. In this article, you will learn the event processing features, the examples of use of the Standard MQL5 Library classes and details of periodic function calls.
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Timeseries in DoEasy library (part 56): Custom indicator object, get data from indicator objects in the collection

Timeseries in DoEasy library (part 56): Custom indicator object, get data from indicator objects in the collection

The article considers creation of the custom indicator object for the use in EAs. Let’s slightly improve library classes and add methods to get data from indicator objects in EAs.
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Automating Trading Strategies in MQL5 (Part 4): Building a Multi-Level Zone Recovery System

Automating Trading Strategies in MQL5 (Part 4): Building a Multi-Level Zone Recovery System

In this article, we develop a Multi-Level Zone Recovery System in MQL5 that utilizes RSI to generate trading signals. Each signal instance is dynamically added to an array structure, allowing the system to manage multiple signals simultaneously within the Zone Recovery logic. Through this approach, we demonstrate how to handle complex trade management scenarios effectively while maintaining a scalable and robust code design.
Better Programmer (Part 04): How to become a faster developer
Better Programmer (Part 04): How to become a faster developer

Better Programmer (Part 04): How to become a faster developer

Every developer wants to be able to write code faster, and being able to code faster and effective is not some kind of special ability that only a few people are born with. It's a skill that can be learned by every coder, regardless of years of experience on the keyboard.
Graphics in DoEasy library (Part 79): "Animation frame" object class and its descendant objects
Graphics in DoEasy library (Part 79): "Animation frame" object class and its descendant objects

Graphics in DoEasy library (Part 79): "Animation frame" object class and its descendant objects

In this article, I will develop the class of a single animation frame and its descendants. The class is to allow drawing shapes while maintaining and then restoring the background under them.
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Cycle analysis using the Goertzel algorithm

Cycle analysis using the Goertzel algorithm

In this article we present code utilities that implement the goertzel algorithm in Mql5 and explore two ways in which the technique can be used in the analysis of price quotes for possible strategy development.
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Developing a trading Expert Advisor from scratch (Part 16): Accessing data on the web (II)

Developing a trading Expert Advisor from scratch (Part 16): Accessing data on the web (II)

Knowing how to input data from the Web into an Expert Advisor is not so obvious. It is not so easy to do without understanding all the possibilities offered by MetaTrader 5.
Using cryptography with external applications
Using cryptography with external applications

Using cryptography with external applications

In this article, we consider encryption/decryption of objects in MetaTrader and in external applications. Our purpose is to determine the conditions under which the same results will be obtained with the same initial data.
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The price movement model and its main provisions (Part 2): Probabilistic price field evolution equation and the occurrence of the observed random walk

The price movement model and its main provisions (Part 2): Probabilistic price field evolution equation and the occurrence of the observed random walk

The article considers the probabilistic price field evolution equation and the upcoming price spike criterion. It also reveals the essence of price values on charts and the mechanism for the occurrence of a random walk of these values.
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Timeseries in DoEasy library (part 49): Multi-period multi-symbol multi-buffer standard indicators

Timeseries in DoEasy library (part 49): Multi-period multi-symbol multi-buffer standard indicators

In the current article, I will improve the library classes to implement the ability to develop multi-symbol multi-period standard indicators requiring several indicator buffers to display their data.
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Visual evaluation of optimization results

Visual evaluation of optimization results

In this article, we will consider how to build graphs of all optimization passes and to select the optimal custom criterion. We will also see how to create a desired solution with little MQL5 knowledge, using the articles published on the website and forum comments.
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Developing a trading Expert Advisor from scratch (Part 15): Accessing data on the web (I)

Developing a trading Expert Advisor from scratch (Part 15): Accessing data on the web (I)

How to access online data via MetaTrader 5? There are a lot of websites and places on the web, featuring a huge amount information. What you need to know is where to look and how best to use this information.
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Creating an MQL5 Expert Advisor Based on the Daily Range Breakout Strategy

Creating an MQL5 Expert Advisor Based on the Daily Range Breakout Strategy

In this article, we create an MQL5 Expert Advisor based on the Daily Range Breakout strategy. We cover the strategy’s key concepts, design the EA blueprint, and implement the breakout logic in MQL5. In the end, we explore techniques for backtesting and optimizing the EA to maximize its effectiveness.
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Understanding functions in MQL5 with applications

Understanding functions in MQL5 with applications

Functions are critical things in any programming language, it helps developers apply the concept of (DRY) which means do not repeat yourself, and many other benefits. In this article, you will find much more information about functions and how we can create our own functions in MQL5 with simple applications that can be used or called in any system you have to enrich your trading system without complicating things.
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Automating Trading Strategies in MQL5 (Part 13): Building a Head and Shoulders Trading Algorithm

Automating Trading Strategies in MQL5 (Part 13): Building a Head and Shoulders Trading Algorithm

In this article, we automate the Head and Shoulders pattern in MQL5. We analyze its architecture, implement an EA to detect and trade it, and backtest the results. The process reveals a practical trading algorithm with room for refinement.
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Metamodels in machine learning and trading: Original timing of trading orders

Metamodels in machine learning and trading: Original timing of trading orders

Metamodels in machine learning: Auto creation of trading systems with little or no human intervention — The model decides when and how to trade on its own.
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MQL5 Wizard techniques you should know (Part 05): Markov Chains

MQL5 Wizard techniques you should know (Part 05): Markov Chains

Markov chains are a powerful mathematical tool that can be used to model and forecast time series data in various fields, including finance. In financial time series modelling and forecasting, Markov chains are often used to model the evolution of financial assets over time, such as stock prices or exchange rates. One of the main advantages of Markov chain models is their simplicity and ease of use.
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Alan Andrews and his methods of time series analysis

Alan Andrews and his methods of time series analysis

Alan Andrews is one of the most famous "educators" of the modern world in the field of trading. His "pitchfork" is included in almost all modern quote analysis programs. But most traders do not use even a fraction of the opportunities that this tool provides. Besides, Andrews' original training course includes a description not only of the pitchfork (although it remains the main tool), but also of some other useful constructions. The article provides an insight into the marvelous chart analysis methods that Andrews taught in his original course. Beware, there will be a lot of images.
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Price Action Analysis Toolkit Development (Part 1): Chart Projector

Price Action Analysis Toolkit Development (Part 1): Chart Projector

This project aims to leverage the MQL5 algorithm to develop a comprehensive set of analysis tools for MetaTrader 5. These tools—ranging from scripts and indicators to AI models and expert advisors—will automate the market analysis process. At times, this development will yield tools capable of performing advanced analyses with no human involvement and forecasting outcomes to appropriate platforms. No opportunity will ever be missed. Join me as we explore the process of building a robust market analysis custom tools' chest. We will begin by developing a simple MQL5 program that I have named, Chart Projector.
MQL5 Cookbook: Reducing the Effect of Overfitting and Handling the Lack of Quotes
MQL5 Cookbook: Reducing the Effect of Overfitting and Handling the Lack of Quotes

MQL5 Cookbook: Reducing the Effect of Overfitting and Handling the Lack of Quotes

Whatever trading strategy you use, there will always be a question of what parameters to choose to ensure future profits. This article gives an example of an Expert Advisor with a possibility to optimize multiple symbol parameters at the same time. This method is intended to reduce the effect of overfitting parameters and handle situations where data from a single symbol are not enough for the study.
Other classes in DoEasy library (Part 68): Chart window object class and indicator object classes in the chart window
Other classes in DoEasy library (Part 68): Chart window object class and indicator object classes in the chart window

Other classes in DoEasy library (Part 68): Chart window object class and indicator object classes in the chart window

In this article, I will continue the development of the chart object class. I will add the list of chart window objects featuring the lists of available indicators.
Continuous futures contracts in MetaTrader 5
Continuous futures contracts in MetaTrader 5

Continuous futures contracts in MetaTrader 5

A short life span of futures contracts complicates their technical analysis. It is difficult to technically analyze short charts. For example, number of bars on the day chart of the UX-9.13 Ukrainian Stock index future is more than 100. Therefore, trader creates synthetic long futures contracts. This article explains how to splice futures contracts with different dates in the MetaTrader 5 terminal.
Connection of Expert Advisor with ICQ in MQL5
Connection of Expert Advisor with ICQ in MQL5

Connection of Expert Advisor with ICQ in MQL5

This article describes the method of information exchange between the Expert Advisor and ICQ users, several examples are presented. The provided material will be interesting for those, who wish to receive trading information remotely from a client terminal, through an ICQ client in their mobile phone or PDA.
Calculating mathematical expressions (Part 2). Pratt and shunting yard parsers
Calculating mathematical expressions (Part 2). Pratt and shunting yard parsers

Calculating mathematical expressions (Part 2). Pratt and shunting yard parsers

In this article, we consider the principles of mathematical expression parsing and evaluation using parsers based on operator precedence. We will implement Pratt and shunting-yard parser, byte-code generation and calculations by this code, as well as view how to use indicators as functions in expressions and how to set up trading signals in Expert Advisors based on these indicators.
Arranging a mailing campaign by means of Google services
Arranging a mailing campaign by means of Google services

Arranging a mailing campaign by means of Google services

A trader may want to arrange a mailing campaign to maintain business relationships with other traders, subscribers, clients or friends. Besides, there may be a necessity to send screenshotas, logs or reports. These may not be the most frequently arising tasks but having such a feature is clearly an advantage. The article deals with using several Google services simultaneously, developing an appropriate assembly on C# and integrating it with MQL tools.
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DoEasy. Controls (Part 15): TabControl WinForms object — several rows of tab headers, tab handling methods

DoEasy. Controls (Part 15): TabControl WinForms object — several rows of tab headers, tab handling methods

In this article, I will continue working on the TabControl WinForm object — I will create a tab field object class, make it possible to arrange tab headers in several rows and add methods for handling object tabs.
Interview with Anton Nel (ATC 2012)
Interview with Anton Nel (ATC 2012)

Interview with Anton Nel (ATC 2012)

Today we talk to Anton Nel (ROMAN5) from South Africa, a professional developer of automated trading systems. Obviously, his Expert Advisor just could not go unnoticed. Breaking into the top ten from the very start of the Championship, it has been holding the first place for more than a week.
Other classes in DoEasy library (Part 71): Chart object collection events
Other classes in DoEasy library (Part 71): Chart object collection events

Other classes in DoEasy library (Part 71): Chart object collection events

In this article, I will create the functionality for tracking some chart object events — adding/removing symbol charts and chart subwindows, as well as adding/removing/changing indicators in chart windows.
Mountain or Iceberg charts
Mountain or Iceberg charts

Mountain or Iceberg charts

How do you like the idea of adding a new chart type to the MetaTrader 5 platform? Some people say it lacks a few things that other platforms offer. But the truth is, MetaTrader 5 is a very practical platform as it allows you to do things that can't be done (or at least can't be done easily) in many other platforms.
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Modified Grid-Hedge EA in MQL5 (Part II): Making a Simple Grid EA

Modified Grid-Hedge EA in MQL5 (Part II): Making a Simple Grid EA

In this article, we explored the classic grid strategy, detailing its automation using an Expert Advisor in MQL5 and analyzing initial backtest results. We highlighted the strategy's need for high holding capacity and outlined plans for optimizing key parameters like distance, takeProfit, and lot sizes in future installments. The series aims to enhance trading strategy efficiency and adaptability to different market conditions.
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Non-linear indicators

Non-linear indicators

In this article, I will make an attempt to consider some ways of building non-linear indicators and their use in trading. There are quite a few indicators in the MetaTrader trading platform that use non-linear approaches.
Tales of Trading Robots: Is Less More?
Tales of Trading Robots: Is Less More?

Tales of Trading Robots: Is Less More?

Two years ago in "The Last Crusade" we reviewed quite an interesting yet currently not widely used method for displaying market information - point and figure charts. Now I suggest you try to write a trading robot based on the patterns detected on the point and figure chart.