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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Data Science and ML (Part 33): Pandas Dataframe in MQL5, Data Collection for ML Usage made easier
When working with machine learning models, it’s essential to ensure consistency in the data used for training, validation, and testing. In this article, we will create our own version of the Pandas library in MQL5 to ensure a unified approach for handling machine learning data, for ensuring the same data is applied inside and outside MQL5, where most of the training occurs.
Understand and Efficiently use OpenCL API by Recreating built-in support as DLL on Linux (Part 2): OpenCL Simple DLL implementation
Continued from the part 1 in the series, now we proceed to implement as a simple DLL then test with MetaTrader 5. This will prepare us well before developing a full-fledge OpenCL as DLL support in the following part to come.
Pipelines in MQL5
In this piece, we look at a key data preparation step for machine learning that is gaining rapid significance. Data Preprocessing Pipelines. These in essence are a streamlined sequence of data transformation steps that prepare raw data before it is fed to a model. As uninteresting as this may initially seem to the uninducted, this ‘data standardization’ not only saves on training time and execution costs, but it goes a long way in ensuring better generalization. In this article we are focusing on some SCIKIT-LEARN preprocessing functions, and while we are not exploiting the MQL5 Wizard, we will return to it in coming articles.
Moving to MQL5 Algo Forge (Part 2): Working with Multiple Repositories
In this article, we are considering one of the possible approaches to organizing the storage of the project's source code in a public repository. We will distribute the code across different branches to establish clear and convenient rules for the project development.
Introduction to MQL5 (Part 21): Automating Harmonic Pattern Detection
Learn how to detect and display the Gartley harmonic pattern in MetaTrader 5 using MQL5. This article explains each step of the process, from identifying swing points to applying Fibonacci ratios and plotting the full pattern on the chart for clear visual confirmation.
Developing a multi-currency Expert Advisor (Part 4): Pending virtual orders and saving status
Having started developing a multi-currency EA, we have already achieved some results and managed to carry out several code improvement iterations. However, our EA was unable to work with pending orders and resume operation after the terminal restart. Let's add these features.
Integrating MQL5 with data processing packages (Part 2): Machine Learning and Predictive Analytics
In our series on integrating MQL5 with data processing packages, we delve in to the powerful combination of machine learning and predictive analysis. We will explore how to seamlessly connect MQL5 with popular machine learning libraries, to enable sophisticated predictive models for financial markets.
Self Optimizing Expert Advisor With MQL5 And Python (Part V): Deep Markov Models
In this discussion, we will apply a simple Markov Chain on an RSI Indicator, to observe how price behaves after the indicator passes through key levels. We concluded that the strongest buy and sell signals on the NZDJPY pair are generated when the RSI is in the 11-20 range and 71-80 range, respectively. We will demonstrate how you can manipulate your data, to create optimal trading strategies that are learned directly from the data you have. Furthermore, we will demonstrate how to train a deep neural network to learn to use the transition matrix optimally.
MQL5 Wizard Techniques you should know (Part 78): Gator and AD Oscillator Strategies for Market Resilience
The article presents the second half of a structured approach to trading with the Gator Oscillator and Accumulation/Distribution. By introducing five new patterns, the author shows how to filter false moves, detect early reversals, and align signals across timeframes. With clear coding examples and performance tests, the material bridges theory and practice for MQL5 developers.
News Trading Made Easy (Part 6): Performing Trades (III)
In this article news filtration for individual news events based on their IDs will be implemented. In addition, previous SQL queries will be improved to provide additional information or reduce the query's runtime. Furthermore, the code built in the previous articles will be made functional.
Population optimization algorithms: Cuckoo Optimization Algorithm (COA)
The next algorithm I will consider is cuckoo search optimization using Levy flights. This is one of the latest optimization algorithms and a new leader in the leaderboard.
Building A Candlestick Trend Constraint Model (Part 7): Refining our model for EA development
In this article, we will delve into the detailed preparation of our indicator for Expert Advisor (EA) development. Our discussion will encompass further refinements to the current version of the indicator to enhance its accuracy and functionality. Additionally, we will introduce new features that mark exit points, addressing a limitation of the previous version, which only identified entry points.
Multiple Symbol Analysis With Python And MQL5 (Part 3): Triangular Exchange Rates
Traders often face drawdowns from false signals, while waiting for confirmation can lead to missed opportunities. This article introduces a triangular trading strategy using Silver’s pricing in Dollars (XAGUSD) and Euros (XAGEUR), along with the EURUSD exchange rate, to filter out noise. By leveraging cross-market relationships, traders can uncover hidden sentiment and refine their entries in real time.
Interview with Atsushi Yamanaka (ATC 2011)
What is common between skydiving, Futures, Hawaii, translations and spies? We didn't know it until we've managed to communicate with disqualified participant Atsushi Yamanaka (alohafx). His has a creed "Life is Good!", and one can hardly doubt that. It was interesting to know that distances between the continents are not an obstacle for communication among our Championship's participants.
Automating Trading Strategies in MQL5 (Part 32): Creating a Price Action 5 Drives Harmonic Pattern System
In this article, we develop a 5 Drives pattern system in MQL5 that identifies bullish and bearish 5 Drives harmonic patterns using pivot points and Fibonacci ratios, executing trades with customizable entry, stop loss, and take-profit levels based on user-selected options. We enhance trader insight with visual feedback through chart objects like triangles, trendlines, and labels to clearly display the A-B-C-D-E-F pattern structure.
DoEasy. Controls (Part 30): Animating the ScrollBar control
In this article, I will continue the development of the ScrollBar control and start implementing the mouse interaction functionality. In addition, I will expand the lists of mouse state flags and events.
Developing a Replay System (Part 78): New Chart Trade (V)
In this article, we will look at how to implement part of the receiver code. Here we will implement an Expert Advisor to test and learn how the protocol interaction works. 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.
Neural networks made easy (Part 44): Learning skills with dynamics in mind
In the previous article, we introduced the DIAYN method, which offers the algorithm for learning a variety of skills. The acquired skills can be used for various tasks. But such skills can be quite unpredictable, which can make them difficult to use. In this article, we will look at an algorithm for learning predictable skills.
Interview with Francisco García García (ATC 2012)
Today we interview Francisco García García (chuliweb) from Spain. A week ago his Expert Advisor reached the 8th place, but the unfortunate logic error in programming threw it from the first page of the Championship leaders. As confirmed by statistics, such an error is not uncommon for many participants.
Neural Networks in Trading: Hierarchical Vector Transformer (HiVT)
We invite you to get acquainted with the Hierarchical Vector Transformer (HiVT) method, which was developed for fast and accurate forecasting of multimodal time series.
Reimagining Classic Strategies (Part II): Bollinger Bands Breakouts
This article explores a trading strategy that integrates Linear Discriminant Analysis (LDA) with Bollinger Bands, leveraging categorical zone predictions for strategic market entry signals.
Creating Custom Indicators in MQL5 (Part 4): Smart WaveTrend Crossover with Dual Oscillators
In this article, we develop a custom indicator in MQL5 called Smart WaveTrend Crossover, utilizing dual WaveTrend oscillators—one for generating crossover signals and another for trend filtering—with customizable parameters for channel, average, and moving average lengths. The indicator plots colored candles based on the trend direction, displays buy and sell arrow signals on crossovers, and includes options to enable trend confirmation and adjust visual elements like colors and offsets.
Data Science and ML (Part 31): Using CatBoost AI Models for Trading
CatBoost AI models have gained massive popularity recently among machine learning communities due to their predictive accuracy, efficiency, and robustness to scattered and difficult datasets. In this article, we are going to discuss in detail how to implement these types of models in an attempt to beat the forex market.
Data Science and Machine Learning (Part 17): Money in the Trees? The Art and Science of Random Forests in Forex Trading
Discover the secrets of algorithmic alchemy as we guide you through the blend of artistry and precision in decoding financial landscapes. Unearth how Random Forests transform data into predictive prowess, offering a unique perspective on navigating the complex terrain of stock markets. Join us on this journey into the heart of financial wizardry, where we demystify the role of Random Forests in shaping market destiny and unlocking the doors to lucrative opportunities
MQL5 Wizard Techniques you should know (Part 84): Using Patterns of Stochastic Oscillator and the FrAMA - Conclusion
The Stochastic Oscillator and the Fractal Adaptive Moving Average are an indicator pairing that could be used for their ability to compliment each other within an MQL5 Expert Advisor. We introduced this pairing in the last article, and now look to wrap up by considering its 5 last signal patterns. In exploring this, as always, we use the MQL5 wizard to build and test out their potential.
MQL5 Wizard Techniques you should know (Part 08): Perceptrons
Perceptrons, single hidden layer networks, can be a good segue for anyone familiar with basic automated trading and is looking to dip into neural networks. We take a step by step look at how this could be realized in a signal class assembly that is part of the MQL5 Wizard classes for expert advisors.
Pure implementation of RSA encryption in MQL5
MQL5 lacks built-in asymmetric cryptography, making secure data exchange over insecure channels like HTTP difficult. This article presents a pure MQL5 implementation of RSA using PKCS#1 v1.5 padding, enabling safe transmission of AES session keys and small data blocks without external libraries. This approach provides HTTPS-like security over standard HTTP and even more, it fills an important gap in secure communication for MQL5 applications.
Neural networks made easy (Part 38): Self-Supervised Exploration via Disagreement
One of the key problems within reinforcement learning is environmental exploration. Previously, we have already seen the research method based on Intrinsic Curiosity. Today I propose to look at another algorithm: Exploration via Disagreement.
GIT: What is it?
In this article, I will introduce a very important tool for developers. If you are not familiar with GIT, read this article to get an idea of what it is and how to use it with MQL5.
Building A Candlestick Trend Constraint Model (Part 8): Expert Advisor Development (II)
Think about an independent Expert Advisor. Previously, we discussed an indicator-based Expert Advisor that also partnered with an independent script for drawing risk and reward geometry. Today, we will discuss the architecture of an MQL5 Expert Advisor, that integrates, all the features in one program.
Employing Game Theory Approaches in Trading Algorithms
We are creating an adaptive self-learning trading expert advisor based on DQN machine learning, with multidimensional causal inference. The EA will successfully trade simultaneously on 7 currency pairs. And agents of different pairs will exchange information with each other.
Neural networks made easy (Part 50): Soft Actor-Critic (model optimization)
In the previous article, we implemented the Soft Actor-Critic algorithm, but were unable to train a profitable model. Here we will optimize the previously created model to obtain the desired results.
Seasonality Filtering and time period for Deep Learning ONNX models with python for EA
Can we benefit from seasonality when creating models for Deep Learning with Python? Does filtering data for the ONNX models help to get better results? What time period should we use? We will cover all of this over this article.
ATC Champions League: Interview with Boris Odintsov (ATC 2011)
Interview with Boris Odintsov (bobsley) is the last one within the ATC Champions League project. Boris won the Automated Trading Championship 2010 - the first Championship held for the Expert Advisors in the new MQL5 language. Having appeared in the top ten already in the first week of the ATC 2010, his EA brought it to the finish and earned $77,000. This year, Boris participates in the competition with the same Expert Advisor with modified settings. Perhaps the robot would still be able to repeat its success.
Interview with Alexander Arashkevich (ATC 2011)
The Championship fervour has finally subsided and we can take a breath and start rethinking its results again. And we have another winner Alexander Arashkevich (AAA777) from Belarus, who has won a special prize from the major sponsor of Automated Trading Championship 2011 - a 3 day trip to one of the Formula One races of the 2012 season. We could not miss the opportunity to talk with him.
Practicing the development of trading strategies
In this article, we will make an attempt to develop our own trading strategy. Any trading strategy must be based on some kind of statistical advantage. Moreover, this advantage should exist for a long time.
From Novice to Expert: Forex Market Periods
Every market period has a beginning and an end, each closing with a price that defines its sentiment—much like any candlestick session. Understanding these reference points allows us to gauge the prevailing market mood, revealing whether bullish or bearish forces are in control. In this discussion, we take an important step forward by developing a new feature within the Market Periods Synchronizer—one that visualizes Forex market sessions to support more informed trading decisions. This tool can be especially powerful for identifying, in real time, which side—bulls or bears—dominates the session. Let’s explore this concept and uncover the insights it offers.
Neural networks made easy (Part 43): Mastering skills without the reward function
The problem of reinforcement learning lies in the need to define a reward function. It can be complex or difficult to formalize. To address this problem, activity-based and environment-based approaches are being explored to learn skills without an explicit reward function.
Developing a multi-currency Expert Advisor (Part 5): Variable position sizes
In the previous parts, the Expert Advisor (EA) under development was able to use only a fixed position size for trading. This is acceptable for testing, but is not advisable when trading on a real account. Let's make it possible to trade using variable position sizes.
Reimagining Classic Strategies in Python: MA Crossovers
In this article, we revisit the classic moving average crossover strategy to assess its current effectiveness. Given the amount of time since its inception, we explore the potential enhancements that AI can bring to this traditional trading strategy. By incorporating AI techniques, we aim to leverage advanced predictive capabilities to potentially optimize trade entry and exit points, adapt to varying market conditions, and enhance overall performance compared to conventional approaches.