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.
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Price Action Analysis Toolkit Development (Part 65): Building an MQL5 System to Monitor and Analyze Manually Drawn Fibonacci Levels
The Fibonacci retracement tool is an essential component of price action analysis, providing critical levels for potential market reactions. However, its effectiveness is often limited by the need for continuous human monitoring, which can lead to missed setups. In this part of our series, we introduce a tool that synchronizes and actively monitors manually drawn Fibonacci levels using MQL5, combining discretionary insight with automated oversight.
Building the Market Structure Sentinel Indicator in MQL5
This article builds a Market Structure Sentinel indicator in MQL5 that detects and visualizes Smart Money Concepts (SMC) events, including Break of Structure (BOS) and Change of Character (CHOCH), in real time. It explains swing detection, structural validation, and trend classification, and adds a compact dashboard to track bullish, bearish, or ranging states for faster on‑chart interpretation.
Who Is Who in MQL5.community?
The MQL5.com website remembers all of you quite well! How many of your threads are epic, how popular your articles are and how often your programs in the Code Base are downloaded – this is only a small part of what is remembered at MQL5.com. Your achievements are available in your profile, but what about the overall picture? In this article we will show the general picture of all MQL5.community members achievements.
StringFormat(). Review and ready-made examples
The article continues the review of the PrintFormat() function. We will briefly look at formatting strings using StringFormat() and their further use in the program. We will also write templates to display symbol data in the terminal journal. The article will be useful for both beginners and experienced developers.
Graphics in DoEasy library (Part 84): Descendant classes of the abstract standard graphical object
In this article, I will consider creation of descendant objects for the terminal abstract standard graphical object. The class object describes the properties that are common for all graphical objects. So, it is simply some kind of a graphical object. To clarify its affiliation with a real graphical object, we need to set the properties inherent in this particular graphical object in the descendant object class.
MQL5 Wizard Techniques you should know (Part 42): ADX Oscillator
The ADX is another relatively popular technical indicator used by some traders to gauge the strength of a prevalent trend. Acting as a combination of two other indicators, it presents as an oscillator whose patterns we explore in this article with the help of MQL5 wizard assembly and its support classes.
Neural Networks in Trading: Models Using Wavelet Transform and Multi-Task Attention (Final Part)
In the previous article, we explored the theoretical foundations and began implementing the approaches of the Multitask-Stockformer framework, which combines the wavelet transform and the Self-Attention multitask model. We continue to implement the algorithms of this framework and evaluate their effectiveness on real historical data.
From Novice to Expert: Reporting EA — Setting up the work flow
Brokerages often provide trading account reports at regular intervals, based on a predefined schedule. These firms, through their API technologies, have access to your account activity and trading history, allowing them to generate performance reports on your behalf. Similarly, the MetaTrader 5 terminal stores detailed records of your trading activity, which can be leveraged using MQL5 to create fully customized reports and define personalized delivery methods.
Experiments with neural networks (Part 3): Practical application
In this article series, I use experimentation and non-standard approaches to develop a profitable trading system and check whether neural networks can be of any help for traders. MetaTrader 5 is approached as a self-sufficient tool for using neural networks in trading.
MetaTrader 5 Machine Learning Blueprint (Part 8): Bayesian Hyperparameter Optimization with Purged Cross-Validation and Trial Pruning
GridSearchCV and RandomizedSearchCV share a fundamental limitation in financial ML: each trial is independent, so search quality does not improve with additional compute. This article integrates Optuna — using the Tree-structured Parzen Estimator — with PurgedKFold cross-validation, HyperbandPruner early stopping, and a dual-weight convention that separates training weights from evaluation weights. The result is a five-component system: an objective function with fold-level pruning, a suggestion layer that optimizes the weighting scheme jointly with model hyperparameters, a financially-calibrated pruner, a resumable SQLite-backed orchestrator, and a converter to scikit-learn cv_results_ format. The article also establishes the boundary — drawn from Timothy Masters — between statistical objectives where directed search is beneficial and financial objectives where it is harmful.
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.
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.
From Novice to Expert: Animated News Headline Using MQL5 (II)
Today, we take another step forward by integrating an external news API as the source of headlines for our News Headline EA. In this phase, we’ll explore various news sources—both established and emerging—and learn how to access their APIs effectively. We'll also cover methods for parsing the retrieved data into a format optimized for display within our Expert Advisor. Join the discussion as we explore the benefits of accessing news headlines and the economic calendar directly on the chart, all within a compact, non-intrusive interface.
Forex spread trading using seasonality
The article examines the possibilities of generating and providing reporting data on the use of the seasonality factor when trading spreads on Forex.
Building a Liquidity Spectrum Volume Profile Indicator in MQL5
Build a Liquidity Spectrum Volume Profile in MQL5 that allocates volume to equal price bins over a chosen lookback using candle close prices. The guide covers data retrieval with copy functions, binning and normalization, and drawing rectangles and POC lines with chart objects and time offsets to reveal high-activity liquidity zones on the chart.
Price Action Analysis Toolkit Development (Part 5): Volatility Navigator EA
Determining market direction can be straightforward, but knowing when to enter can be challenging. As part of the series titled "Price Action Analysis Toolkit Development", I am excited to introduce another tool that provides entry points, take profit levels, and stop loss placements. To achieve this, we have utilized the MQL5 programming language. Let’s delve into each step in this article.
Trading Options Without Options (Part 2): Use in Real Trading
The article considers simple options strategies and their implementation in MQL5. We will develop a basic EA that will be modernized and become more complex.
Gain An Edge Over Any Market (Part V): FRED EURUSD Alternative Data
In today’s discussion, we used alternative Daily data from the St. Louis Federal Reserve on the Broad US-Dollar Index and a collection of other macroeconomic indicators to predict the EURUSD future exchange rate. Unfortunately, while the data appears to have almost perfect correlation, we failed to realize any material gains in our model accuracy, possibly suggesting to us that investors may be better off using ordinary market quotes instead.
Raw Code Optimization and Tweaking for Improving Back-Test Results
Enhance your MQL5 code by optimizing logic, refining calculations, and reducing execution time to improve back-test accuracy. Fine-tune parameters, optimize loops, and eliminate inefficiencies for better performance.
Triangular arbitrage with predictions
This article simplifies triangular arbitrage, showing you how to use predictions and specialized software to trade currencies smarter, even if you're new to the market. Ready to trade with expertise?
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.
Introduction to MQL5 (Part 2): Navigating Predefined Variables, Common Functions, and Control Flow Statements
Embark on an illuminating journey with Part Two of our MQL5 series. These articles are not just tutorials, they're doorways to an enchanted realm where programming novices and wizards alike unite. What makes this journey truly magical? Part Two of our MQL5 series stands out with its refreshing simplicity, making complex concepts accessible to all. Engage with us interactively as we answer your questions, ensuring an enriching and personalized learning experience. Let's build a community where understanding MQL5 is an adventure for everyone. Welcome to the enchantment!
Cyclic Parthenogenesis Algorithm (CPA)
The article considers a new population optimization algorithm - Cyclic Parthenogenesis Algorithm (CPA), inspired by the unique reproductive strategy of aphids. The algorithm combines two reproduction mechanisms — parthenogenesis and sexual reproduction — and also utilizes the colonial structure of the population with the possibility of migration between colonies. The key features of the algorithm are adaptive switching between different reproductive strategies and a system of information exchange between colonies through the flight mechanism.
DoEasy. Controls (Part 18): Functionality for scrolling tabs in TabControl
In this article, I will place header scrolling control buttons in TabControl WinForms object in case the header bar does not fit the size of the control. Besides, I will implement the shift of the header bar when clicking on the cropped tab header.
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.
Creating an MQL5-Telegram Integrated Expert Advisor (Part 6): Adding Responsive Inline Buttons
In this article, we integrate interactive inline buttons into an MQL5 Expert Advisor, allowing real-time control via Telegram. Each button press triggers specific actions and sends responses back to the user. We also modularize functions for handling Telegram messages and callback queries efficiently.
Interview with Mariusz Zarnowski (ATC 2012)
As December 28 is approaching, the list of leaders of the Automated Trading Championship 2012 is becoming clearer. With only two weeks to go until the end of the Championship, Mariusz Zarnowski (zrn) from Poland stands a good chance to be in the top three. His EA has already demonstrated how it can triple the initial deposit in just a couple of weeks.
Creating Custom Indicators in MQL5 (Part 2): Building a Gauge-Style RSI Display with Canvas and Needle Mechanics
In this article, we develop a gauge-style RSI indicator in MQL5 that visualizes Relative Strength Index values on a circular scale with a dynamic needle, color-coded ranges for overbought and oversold levels, and customizable legends. We utilize the Canvas class to draw elements like arcs, ticks, and pies, ensuring smooth updates on new RSI data.
Neural Networks in Trading: Integrating Chaos Theory into Time Series Forecasting (Attraos)
The Attraos framework integrates chaos theory into long-term time series forecasting, treating them as projections of multidimensional chaotic dynamic systems. Exploiting attractor invariance, the model uses phase space reconstruction and dynamic multi-resolution memory to preserve historical structures.
Mastering Quick Trades: Overcoming Execution Paralysis
The UT BOT ATR Trailing Indicator is a personal and customizable indicator that is very effective for traders who like to make quick decisions and make money from differences in price referred to as short-term trading (scalpers) and also proves to be vital and very effective for long-term traders (positional traders).
MQL5 Wizard Techniques you should know (Part 83): Using Patterns of Stochastic Oscillator and the FrAMA — Behavioral Archetypes
The Stochastic Oscillator and the Fractal Adaptive Moving Average are another indicator pairing that could be used for their ability to compliment each other within an MQL5 Expert Advisor. We look at the Stochastic for its ability to pinpoint momentum shifts, while the FrAMA is used to provide confirmation of the prevailing trends. In exploring this indicator pairing, as always, we use the MQL5 wizard to build and test out their potential.
Measuring Indicator Information
Machine learning has become a popular method for strategy development. Whilst there has been more emphasis on maximizing profitability and prediction accuracy , the importance of processing the data used to build predictive models has not received a lot of attention. In this article we consider using the concept of entropy to evaluate the appropriateness of indicators to be used in predictive model building as documented in the book Testing and Tuning Market Trading Systems by Timothy Masters.
Fast trading strategy tester in Python using Numba
The article implements a fast strategy tester for machine learning models using Numba. It is 50 times faster than the pure Python strategy tester. The author recommends using this library to speed up mathematical calculations, especially the ones involving loops.
Trading Insights Through Volume: Trend Confirmation
The Enhanced Trend Confirmation Technique combines price action, volume analysis, and machine learning to identify genuine market movements. It requires both price breakouts and volume surges (50% above average) for trade validation, while using an LSTM neural network for additional confirmation. The system employs ATR-based position sizing and dynamic risk management, making it adaptable to various market conditions while filtering out false signals.
Portfolio Optimization in Python and MQL5
This article explores advanced portfolio optimization techniques using Python and MQL5 with MetaTrader 5. It demonstrates how to develop algorithms for data analysis, asset allocation, and trading signal generation, emphasizing the importance of data-driven decision-making in modern financial management and risk mitigation.
MQL5 Wizard Techniques you should know (Part 73): Using Patterns of Ichimoku and the ADX-Wilder
The Ichimoku-Kinko-Hyo Indicator and the ADX-Wilder oscillator are a pairing that could be used in complimentarily within an MQL5 Expert Advisor. The Ichimoku is multi-faceted, however for this article, we are relying on it primarily for its ability to define support and resistance levels. Meanwhile, we also use the ADX to define our trend. As usual, we use the MQL5 wizard to build and test any potential these two may possess.
DoEasy. Controls (Part 9): Re-arranging WinForms object methods, RadioButton and Button controls
In this article, I will fix the names of WinForms object class methods and create Button and RadioButton WinForms objects.
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).
Creating an Interactive Graphical User Interface in MQL5 (Part 2): Adding Controls and Responsiveness
Enhancing the MQL5 GUI panel with dynamic features can significantly improve the trading experience for users. By incorporating interactive elements, hover effects, and real-time data updates, the panel becomes a powerful tool for modern traders.
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).