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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GIT: What is it?

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.
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SQLite capabilities in MQL5: Example of a dashboard with trading statistics by symbols and magic numbers

SQLite capabilities in MQL5: Example of a dashboard with trading statistics by symbols and magic numbers

In this article, we will consider creating an indicator that displays trading statistics on a dashboard by account and by symbols and trading strategies. We will implement the code based on examples from the Documentation and the article on working with databases.
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From Novice to Expert: Mastering Detailed Trading Reports with Reporting EA

From Novice to Expert: Mastering Detailed Trading Reports with Reporting EA

In this article, we delve into enhancing the details of trading reports and delivering the final document via email in PDF format. This marks a progression from our previous work, as we continue exploring how to harness the power of MQL5 and Python to generate and schedule trading reports in the most convenient and professional formats. Join us in this discussion to learn more about optimizing trading report generation within the MQL5 ecosystem.
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Timeseries in DoEasy library (part 50): Multi-period multi-symbol standard indicators with a shift

Timeseries in DoEasy library (part 50): Multi-period multi-symbol standard indicators with a shift

In the article, let’s improve library methods for correct display of multi-symbol multi-period standard indicators, which lines are displayed on the current symbol chart with a shift set in the settings. As well, let’s put things in order in methods of work with standard indicators and remove the redundant code to the library area in the final indicator program.
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Building A Candlestick Trend Constraint Model (Part 7): Refining our model for EA development

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.
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Developing a Replay System (Part 78): New Chart Trade (V)

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.
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Market Profile indicator (Part 2): Optimization and rendering on canvas

Market Profile indicator (Part 2): Optimization and rendering on canvas

The article considers an optimized version of the Market Profile indicator, where rendering with multiple graphical objects is replaced with rendering on a canvas - an object of the CCanvas class.
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Developing Trading Strategy: Pseudo Pearson Correlation Approach

Developing Trading Strategy: Pseudo Pearson Correlation Approach

Generating new indicators from existing ones offers a powerful way to enhance trading analysis. By defining a mathematical function that integrates the outputs of existing indicators, traders can create hybrid indicators that consolidate multiple signals into a single, efficient tool. This article introduces a new indicator built from three oscillators using a modified version of the Pearson correlation function, which we call the Pseudo Pearson Correlation (PPC). The PPC indicator aims to quantify the dynamic relationship between oscillators and apply it within a practical trading strategy.
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Population optimization algorithms: Cuckoo Optimization Algorithm (COA)

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.
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Python-MetaTrader 5 Strategy Tester (Part 04): Tester 101

Python-MetaTrader 5 Strategy Tester (Part 04): Tester 101

In this fascinating article, we build our very first trading robot in the simulator and run a strategy testing action that resembles how the MetaTrader 5 strategy tester works, then compare the outcome produced in a custom simulation against our favorite terminal.
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MQL5 Trading Tools (Part 20): Canvas Graphing with Statistical Correlation and Regression Analysis

MQL5 Trading Tools (Part 20): Canvas Graphing with Statistical Correlation and Regression Analysis

In this article, we create a canvas-based graphing tool in MQL5 for statistical correlation and linear regression analysis between two symbols, with draggable and resizable features. We incorporate ALGLIB for regression calculations, dynamic tick labels, data points, and a stats panel displaying slope, intercept, correlation, and R-squared. This interactive visualization aids in pair trading insights, supporting customizable themes, borders, and real-time updates on new bars
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Simple solutions for handling indicators conveniently

Simple solutions for handling indicators conveniently

In this article, I will describe how to make a simple panel to change the indicator settings directly from the chart, and what changes need to be made to the indicator to connect the panel. This article is intended for novice MQL5 users.
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Feature Engineering With Python And MQL5 (Part I): Forecasting Moving Averages For Long-Range AI Models

Feature Engineering With Python And MQL5 (Part I): Forecasting Moving Averages For Long-Range AI Models

The moving averages are by far the best indicators for our AI models to predict. However, we can improve our accuracy even further by carefully transforming our data. This article will demonstrate, how you can build AI Models capable of forecasting further into the future than you may currently be practicing without significant drops to your accuracy levels. It is truly remarkable, how useful the moving averages are.
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Application of Nash's Game Theory with HMM Filtering in Trading

Application of Nash's Game Theory with HMM Filtering in Trading

This article delves into the application of John Nash's game theory, specifically the Nash Equilibrium, in trading. It discusses how traders can utilize Python scripts and MetaTrader 5 to identify and exploit market inefficiencies using Nash's principles. The article provides a step-by-step guide on implementing these strategies, including the use of Hidden Markov Models (HMM) and statistical analysis, to enhance trading performance.
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MQL5 Wizard Techniques you should know (Part 75): Using Awesome Oscillator and the Envelopes

MQL5 Wizard Techniques you should know (Part 75): Using Awesome Oscillator and the Envelopes

The Awesome Oscillator by Bill Williams and the Envelopes Channel are a pairing that could be used complimentarily within an MQL5 Expert Advisor. We use the Awesome Oscillator for its ability to spot trends, while the envelopes channel is incorporated to define our support/resistance levels. In exploring this indicator pairing, we use the MQL5 wizard to build and test any potential these two may possess.
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Dingo Optimization Algorithm Modification (DOAm)

Dingo Optimization Algorithm Modification (DOAm)

The custom modification of the Dingo algorithm presented in the article has raised the bar for finding the best optimization algorithm. Are even better results possible?
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MQL5 Trading Tools (Part 4): Improving the Multi-Timeframe Scanner Dashboard with Dynamic Positioning and Toggle Features

MQL5 Trading Tools (Part 4): Improving the Multi-Timeframe Scanner Dashboard with Dynamic Positioning and Toggle Features

In this article, we upgrade the MQL5 Multi-Timeframe Scanner Dashboard with movable and toggle features. We enable dragging the dashboard and a minimize/maximize option for better screen use. We implement and test these enhancements for improved trading flexibility.
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Implementing Practical Modules from Other Languages in MQL5 (Part 02): Building the REQUESTS Library, Inspired by Python

Implementing Practical Modules from Other Languages in MQL5 (Part 02): Building the REQUESTS Library, Inspired by Python

In this article, we implement a module similar to requests offered in Python to make it easier to send and receive web requests in MetaTrader 5 using MQL5.
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Neural networks made easy (Part 44): Learning skills with dynamics in mind

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.
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Automating Market Entropy Indicator: Trading System Based on Information Theory

Automating Market Entropy Indicator: Trading System Based on Information Theory

This article presents an EA that automates the previously introduced Market Entropy methodology. It computes fast and slow entropy, momentum, and compression states, validates signals, and executes orders with SL/TP and optional position reversal. The result is a practical, configurable tool that applies information-theoretic signals without manual interpretation.
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From Novice to Expert: Revealing the Candlestick Shadows (Wicks)

From Novice to Expert: Revealing the Candlestick Shadows (Wicks)

In this discussion, we take a step forward to uncover the underlying price action hidden within candlestick wicks. By integrating a wick visualization feature into the Market Periods Synchronizer, we enhance the tool with greater analytical depth and interactivity. This upgraded system allows traders to visualize higher-timeframe price rejections directly on lower-timeframe charts, revealing detailed structures that were once concealed within the shadows.
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Master MQL5 from Beginner to Pro (Part III): Complex Data Types and Include Files

Master MQL5 from Beginner to Pro (Part III): Complex Data Types and Include Files

This is the third article in a series describing the main aspects of MQL5 programming. This article covers complex data types that were not discussed in the previous article. These include structures, unions, classes, and the 'function' data type. It also explains how to add modularity to your program using the #include preprocessor directive.
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Neural Networks in Trading: An Agent with Layered Memory (Final Part)

Neural Networks in Trading: An Agent with Layered Memory (Final Part)

We continue our work on creating the FinMem framework, which uses layered memory approaches that mimic human cognitive processes. This allows the model not only to effectively process complex financial data but also to adapt to new signals, significantly improving the accuracy and effectiveness of investment decisions in dynamically changing markets.
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Neural networks made easy (Part 38): Self-Supervised Exploration via Disagreement

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.
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Integrate Your Own LLM into EA (Part 5): Develop and Test Trading Strategy with LLMs(I)-Fine-tuning

Integrate Your Own LLM into EA (Part 5): Develop and Test Trading Strategy with LLMs(I)-Fine-tuning

With the rapid development of artificial intelligence today, language models (LLMs) are an important part of artificial intelligence, so we should think about how to integrate powerful LLMs into our algorithmic trading. For most people, it is difficult to fine-tune these powerful models according to their needs, deploy them locally, and then apply them to algorithmic trading. This series of articles will take a step-by-step approach to achieve this goal.
Interview with Atsushi Yamanaka (ATC 2011)
Interview with Atsushi Yamanaka (ATC 2011)

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.
Interview with Francisco García García (ATC 2012)
Interview with Francisco García García (ATC 2012)

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.
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Trading Insights Through Volume: Moving Beyond OHLC Charts

Trading Insights Through Volume: Moving Beyond OHLC Charts

Algorithmic trading system that combines volume analysis with machine learning techniques, specifically LSTM neural networks. Unlike traditional trading approaches that primarily focus on price movements, this system emphasizes volume patterns and their derivatives to predict market movements. The methodology incorporates three main components: volume derivatives analysis (first and second derivatives), LSTM predictions for volume patterns, and traditional technical indicators.
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Formulating Dynamic Multi-Pair EA (Part 2): Portfolio Diversification and Optimization

Formulating Dynamic Multi-Pair EA (Part 2): Portfolio Diversification and Optimization

Portfolio Diversification and Optimization strategically spreads investments across multiple assets to minimize risk while selecting the ideal asset mix to maximize returns based on risk-adjusted performance metrics.
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DoEasy. Controls (Part 30): Animating the ScrollBar control

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.
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From Novice to Expert: Implementation of Fibonacci Strategies in Post-NFP Market Trading

From Novice to Expert: Implementation of Fibonacci Strategies in Post-NFP Market Trading

In financial markets, the laws of retracement remain among the most undeniable forces. It is a rule of thumb that price will always retrace—whether in large moves or even within the smallest tick patterns, which often appear as a zigzag. However, the retracement pattern itself is never fixed; it remains uncertain and subject to anticipation. This uncertainty explains why traders rely on multiple Fibonacci levels, each carrying a certain probability of influence. In this discussion, we introduce a refined strategy that applies Fibonacci techniques to address the challenges of trading shortly after major economic event announcements. By combining retracement principles with event-driven market behavior, we aim to uncover more reliable entry and exit opportunities. Join to explore the full discussion and see how Fibonacci can be adapted to post-event trading.
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Seasonality Filtering and time period for Deep Learning ONNX models with python for EA

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.
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Neural Networks in Trading: A Multi-Agent Self-Adaptive Model (Final Part)

Neural Networks in Trading: A Multi-Agent Self-Adaptive Model (Final Part)

In the previous article, we introduced the multi-agent self-adaptive framework MASA, which combines reinforcement learning approaches and self-adaptive strategies, providing a harmonious balance between profitability and risk in turbulent market conditions. We have built the functionality of individual agents within this framework. In this article, we will continue the work we started, bringing it to its logical conclusion.
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MQL5 Wizard Techniques you should know (Part 19): Bayesian Inference

MQL5 Wizard Techniques you should know (Part 19): Bayesian Inference

Bayesian inference is the adoption of Bayes Theorem to update probability hypothesis as new information is made available. This intuitively leans to adaptation in time series analysis, and so we have a look at how we could use this in building custom classes not just for the signal but also money-management and trailing-stops.
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Neural Networks in Trading: Hyperbolic Latent Diffusion Model (Final Part)

Neural Networks in Trading: Hyperbolic Latent Diffusion Model (Final Part)

The use of anisotropic diffusion processes for encoding the initial data in a hyperbolic latent space, as proposed in the HypDIff framework, assists in preserving the topological features of the current market situation and improves the quality of its analysis. In the previous article, we started implementing the proposed approaches using MQL5. Today we will continue the work we started and will bring it to its logical conclusion.
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ARIMA Forecasting Indicator in MQL5

ARIMA Forecasting Indicator in MQL5

In this article we are implementing ARIMA forecasting indicator in MQL5. It examines how the ARIMA model generates forecasts, its applicability to the Forex market and the stock market in general. It also explains what AR autoregression is, how autoregressive models are used for forecasting, and how the autoregression mechanism works.
Interview with Alexander Arashkevich (ATC 2011)
Interview with Alexander Arashkevich (ATC 2011)

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.
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Build a Remote Forex Risk Management System in Python

Build a Remote Forex Risk Management System in Python

We are making a remote professional risk manager for Forex in Python, deploying it on the server step by step. In the course of the article, we will understand how to programmatically manage Forex risks, and how not to waste a Forex deposit any more.
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Neural networks made easy (Part 43): Mastering skills without the reward function

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.
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MQL5 Wizard Techniques you should know (Part 08): Perceptrons

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.