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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Analyzing binary code of prices on the exchange (Part I): A new look at technical analysis

Analyzing binary code of prices on the exchange (Part I): A new look at technical analysis

This article presents an innovative approach to technical analysis based on converting price movements into binary code. The author demonstrates how various aspects of market behavior — from simple price movements to complex patterns — can be encoded in a sequence of zeros and ones.
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Neural networks made easy (Part 69): Density-based support constraint for the behavioral policy (SPOT)

Neural networks made easy (Part 69): Density-based support constraint for the behavioral policy (SPOT)

In offline learning, we use a fixed dataset, which limits the coverage of environmental diversity. During the learning process, our Agent can generate actions beyond this dataset. If there is no feedback from the environment, how can we be sure that the assessments of such actions are correct? Maintaining the Agent's policy within the training dataset becomes an important aspect to ensure the reliability of training. This is what we will talk about in this article.
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Atmosphere Clouds Model Optimization (ACMO): Theory

Atmosphere Clouds Model Optimization (ACMO): Theory

The article is devoted to the metaheuristic Atmosphere Clouds Model Optimization (ACMO) algorithm, which simulates the behavior of clouds to solve optimization problems. The algorithm uses the principles of cloud generation, movement and propagation, adapting to the "weather conditions" in the solution space. The article reveals how the algorithm's meteorological simulation finds optimal solutions in a complex possibility space and describes in detail the stages of ACMO operation, including "sky" preparation, cloud birth, cloud movement, and rain concentration.
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Neural Networks in Trading: Memory Augmented Context-Aware Learning for Cryptocurrency Markets (Final Part)

Neural Networks in Trading: Memory Augmented Context-Aware Learning for Cryptocurrency Markets (Final Part)

The MacroHFT framework for high-frequency cryptocurrency trading uses context-aware reinforcement learning and memory to adapt to dynamic market conditions. At the end of this article, we will test the implemented approaches on real historical data to assess their effectiveness.
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Developing a Replay System (Part 45): Chart Trade Project (IV)

Developing a Replay System (Part 45): Chart Trade Project (IV)

The main purpose of this article is to introduce and explain the C_ChartFloatingRAD class. We have a Chart Trade indicator that works in a rather interesting way. As you may have noticed, we still have a fairly small number of objects on the chart, and yet we get the expected functionality. The values present in the indicator can be edited. The question is, how is this possible? This article will start to make things clearer.
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Developing a Replay System (Part 35): Making Adjustments (I)

Developing a Replay System (Part 35): Making Adjustments (I)

Before we can move forward, we need to fix a few things. These are not actually the necessary fixes but rather improvements to the way the class is managed and used. The reason is that failures occurred due to some interaction within the system. Despite attempts to find out the cause of such failures in order to eliminate them, all these attempts were unsuccessful. Some of these cases make no sense, for example, when we use pointers or recursion in C/C++, the program crashes.
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MQL5 Trading Toolkit (Part 6): Expanding the History Management EX5 Library with the Last Filled Pending Order Functions

MQL5 Trading Toolkit (Part 6): Expanding the History Management EX5 Library with the Last Filled Pending Order Functions

Learn how to create an EX5 module of exportable functions that seamlessly query and save data for the most recently filled pending order. In this comprehensive step-by-step guide, we will enhance the History Management EX5 library by developing dedicated and compartmentalized functions to retrieve essential properties of the last filled pending order. These properties include the order type, setup time, execution time, filling type, and other critical details necessary for effective pending orders trade history management and analysis.
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MQL5 Wizard Techniques you should know (Part 40): Parabolic SAR

MQL5 Wizard Techniques you should know (Part 40): Parabolic SAR

The Parabolic Stop-and-Reversal (SAR) is an indicator for trend confirmation and trend termination points. Because it is a laggard in identifying trends its primary purpose has been in positioning trailing stop losses on open positions. We, however, explore if indeed it could be used as an Expert Advisor signal, thanks to custom signal classes of wizard assembled Expert Advisors.
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MQL5 Wizard Techniques you should know (Part 81):  Using Patterns of Ichimoku and the ADX-Wilder with Beta VAE Inference Learning

MQL5 Wizard Techniques you should know (Part 81): Using Patterns of Ichimoku and the ADX-Wilder with Beta VAE Inference Learning

This piece follows up ‘Part-80’, where we examined the pairing of Ichimoku and the ADX under a Reinforcement Learning framework. We now shift focus to Inference Learning. Ichimoku and ADX are complimentary as already covered, however we are going to revisit the conclusions of the last article related to pipeline use. For our inference learning, we are using the Beta algorithm of a Variational Auto Encoder. We also stick with the implementation of a custom signal class designed for integration with the MQL5 Wizard.
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Developing a Replay System (Part 55): Control Module

Developing a Replay System (Part 55): Control Module

In this article, we will implement a control indicator so that it can be integrated into the message system we are developing. Although it is not very difficult, there are some details that need to be understood about the initialization of this module. The material presented here is for educational purposes only. In no way should it be considered as an application for any purpose other than learning and mastering the concepts shown.
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Self Optimizing Expert Advisors in MQL5 (Part 14): Viewing Data Transformations as Tuning Parameters of Our Feedback Controller

Self Optimizing Expert Advisors in MQL5 (Part 14): Viewing Data Transformations as Tuning Parameters of Our Feedback Controller

Preprocessing is a powerful yet quickly overlooked tuning parameter. It lives in the shadows of its bigger brothers: optimizers and shiny model architectures. Small percentage improvements here can have disproportionately large, compounding effects on profitability and risk. Too often, this largely unexplored science is boiled down to a simple routine, seen only as a means to an end, when in reality it is where signal can be directly amplified, or just as easily destroyed.
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From Novice to Expert: Market Periods Synchronizer

From Novice to Expert: Market Periods Synchronizer

In this discussion, we introduce a Higher-to-Lower Timeframe Synchronizer tool designed to solve the problem of analyzing market patterns that span across higher timeframe periods. The built-in period markers in MetaTrader 5 are often limited, rigid, and not easily customizable for non-standard timeframes. Our solution leverages the MQL5 language to develop an indicator that provides a dynamic and visual way to align higher timeframe structures within lower timeframe charts. This tool can be highly valuable for detailed market analysis. To learn more about its features and implementation, I invite you to join the discussion.
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Neural Networks in Trading: Hyperbolic Latent Diffusion Model (HypDiff)

Neural Networks in Trading: Hyperbolic Latent Diffusion Model (HypDiff)

The article considers methods of encoding initial data in hyperbolic latent space through anisotropic diffusion processes. This helps to more accurately preserve the topological characteristics of the current market situation and improves the quality of its analysis.
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Atmosphere Clouds Model Optimization (ACMO): Practice

Atmosphere Clouds Model Optimization (ACMO): Practice

In this article, we will continue diving into the implementation of the ACMO (Atmospheric Cloud Model Optimization) algorithm. In particular, we will discuss two key aspects: the movement of clouds into low-pressure regions and the rain simulation, including the initialization of droplets and their distribution among clouds. We will also look at other methods that play an important role in managing the state of clouds and ensuring their interaction with the environment.
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Reimagining Classic Strategies (Part VII) : Forex Markets And Sovereign Debt Analysis on the USDJPY

Reimagining Classic Strategies (Part VII) : Forex Markets And Sovereign Debt Analysis on the USDJPY

In today's article, we will analyze the relationship between future exchange rates and government bonds. Bonds are among the most popular forms of fixed income securities and will be the focus of our discussion.Join us as we explore whether we can improve a classic strategy using AI.
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Neural Networks in Trading: Hierarchical Dual-Tower Transformer (Final Part)

Neural Networks in Trading: Hierarchical Dual-Tower Transformer (Final Part)

We continue to build the Hidformer hierarchical dual-tower transformer model designed for analyzing and forecasting complex multivariate time series. In this article, we will bring the work we started earlier to its logical conclusion — we will test the model on real historical data.
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Feature selection and dimensionality reduction using principal components

Feature selection and dimensionality reduction using principal components

The article delves into the implementation of a modified Forward Selection Component Analysis algorithm, drawing inspiration from the research presented in “Forward Selection Component Analysis: Algorithms and Applications” by Luca Puggini and Sean McLoone.
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From Basic to Intermediate: Structs (II)

From Basic to Intermediate: Structs (II)

In this article, we will try to understand why programming languages like MQL5 have structures, and why in some cases structures are the ideal way to pass values between functions and procedures, while in other cases they may not be the best way to do it.
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Population optimization algorithms: Bacterial Foraging Optimization - Genetic Algorithm (BFO-GA)

Population optimization algorithms: Bacterial Foraging Optimization - Genetic Algorithm (BFO-GA)

The article presents a new approach to solving optimization problems by combining ideas from bacterial foraging optimization (BFO) algorithms and techniques used in the genetic algorithm (GA) into a hybrid BFO-GA algorithm. It uses bacterial swarming to globally search for an optimal solution and genetic operators to refine local optima. Unlike the original BFO, bacteria can now mutate and inherit genes.
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Developing an MQTT client for Metatrader 5: a TDD approach — Part 5

Developing an MQTT client for Metatrader 5: a TDD approach — Part 5

This article is the fifth part of a series describing our development steps of a native MQL5 client for the MQTT 5.0 protocol. In this part we describe the structure of PUBLISH packets, how we are setting their Publish Flags, encoding Topic Name(s) strings, and setting Packet Identifier(s) when required.
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Market Simulation (Part 05): Creating the C_Orders Class (II)

Market Simulation (Part 05): Creating the C_Orders Class (II)

In this article, I will explain how Chart Trade, together with the Expert Advisor, will process a request to close all of the users' open positions. This may sound simple, but there are a few complications that you need to know how to manage.
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Developing a Replay System (Part 39): Paving the Path (III)

Developing a Replay System (Part 39): Paving the Path (III)

Before we proceed to the second stage of development, we need to revise some ideas. Do you know how to make MQL5 do what you need? Have you ever tried to go beyond what is contained in the documentation? If not, then get ready. Because we will be doing something that most people don't normally do.
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Developing a Replay System (Part 34): Order System (III)

Developing a Replay System (Part 34): Order System (III)

In this article, we will complete the first phase of construction. Although this part is fairly quick to complete, I will cover details that were not discussed previously. I will explain some points that many do not understand. Do you know why you have to press the Shift or Ctrl key?
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Developing a Replay System (Part 41): Starting the second phase (II)

Developing a Replay System (Part 41): Starting the second phase (II)

If everything seemed right to you up to this point, it means you're not really thinking about the long term, when you start developing applications. Over time you will no longer need to program new applications, you will just have to make them work together. So let's see how to finish assembling the mouse indicator.
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Developing a multi-currency Expert Advisor (Part 23): Putting in order the conveyor of automatic project optimization stages (II)

Developing a multi-currency Expert Advisor (Part 23): Putting in order the conveyor of automatic project optimization stages (II)

We aim to create a system for automatic periodic optimization of trading strategies used in one final EA. As the system evolves, it becomes increasingly complex, so it is necessary to look at it as a whole from time to time in order to identify bottlenecks and suboptimal solutions.
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From Basic to Intermediate: Union (I)

From Basic to Intermediate: Union (I)

In this article we will look at what a union is. Here, through experiments, we will analyze the first constructions in which union can be used. However, what will be shown here is only a core part of a set of concepts and information that will be covered in subsequent articles. 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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Mastering Log Records (Part 10): Avoiding Log Replay by Implementing a Suppression

Mastering Log Records (Part 10): Avoiding Log Replay by Implementing a Suppression

We created a log suppression system in the Logify library. It details how the CLogifySuppression class reduces console noise by applying configurable rules to avoid repetitive or irrelevant messages. We also cover the external configuration framework, validation mechanisms, and comprehensive testing to ensure robustness and flexibility in log capture during bot or indicator development.
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Stepwise feature selection in MQL5

Stepwise feature selection in MQL5

In this article, we introduce a modified version of stepwise feature selection, implemented in MQL5. This approach is based on the techniques outlined in Modern Data Mining Algorithms in C++ and CUDA C by Timothy Masters.
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Mastering Log Records (Part 2): Formatting Logs

Mastering Log Records (Part 2): Formatting Logs

In this article, we will explore how to create and apply log formatters in the library. We will see everything from the basic structure of a formatter to practical implementation examples. By the end, you will have the necessary knowledge to format logs within the library, and understand how everything works behind the scenes.
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Overcoming The Limitation of Machine Learning (Part 7): Automatic Strategy Selection

Overcoming The Limitation of Machine Learning (Part 7): Automatic Strategy Selection

This article demonstrates how to automatically identify potentially profitable trading strategies using MetaTrader 5. White-box solutions, powered by unsupervised matrix factorization, are faster to configure, more interpretable, and provide clear guidance on which strategies to retain. Black-box solutions, while more time-consuming, are better suited for complex market conditions that white-box approaches may not capture. Join us as we discuss how our trading strategies can help us carefully identify profitable strategies under any circumstance.
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Bivariate Copulae in MQL5 (Part 1): Implementing Gaussian and Student's t-Copulae for Dependency Modeling

Bivariate Copulae in MQL5 (Part 1): Implementing Gaussian and Student's t-Copulae for Dependency Modeling

This is the first part of an article series presenting the implementation of bivariate copulae in MQL5. This article presents code implementing Gaussian and Student's t-copulae. It also delves into the fundamentals of statistical copulae and related topics. The code is based on the Arbitragelab Python package by Hudson and Thames.
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From Novice to Expert: Animated News Headline Using MQL5 (V)—Event Reminder System

From Novice to Expert: Animated News Headline Using MQL5 (V)—Event Reminder System

In this discussion, we’ll explore additional advancements as we integrate refined event‑alerting logic for the economic calendar events displayed by the News Headline EA. This enhancement is critical—it ensures users receive timely notifications a short time before key upcoming events. Join this discussion to discover more.
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MQL5 Wizard Techniques you should know (Part 29): Continuation on Learning Rates with MLPs

MQL5 Wizard Techniques you should know (Part 29): Continuation on Learning Rates with MLPs

We wrap up our look at learning rate sensitivity to the performance of Expert Advisors by primarily examining the Adaptive Learning Rates. These learning rates aim to be customized for each parameter in a layer during the training process and so we assess potential benefits vs the expected performance toll.
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Developing a Replay System (Part 56): Adapting the Modules

Developing a Replay System (Part 56): Adapting the Modules

Although the modules already interact with each other properly, an error occurs when trying to use the mouse pointer in the replay service. We need to fix this before moving on to the next step. Additionally, we will fix an issue in the mouse indicator code. So this version will be finally stable and properly polished.
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Implementing Practical Modules from Other Languages in MQL5 (Part 04): time, date, and datetime modules from Python

Implementing Practical Modules from Other Languages in MQL5 (Part 04): time, date, and datetime modules from Python

Unlike MQL5, Python programming language offers control and flexibility when it comes to dealing with and manipulating time. In this article, we will implement similar modules for better handling of dates and time in MQL5 as in Python.
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Population optimization algorithms: Resistance to getting stuck in local extrema (Part I)

Population optimization algorithms: Resistance to getting stuck in local extrema (Part I)

This article presents a unique experiment that aims to examine the behavior of population optimization algorithms in the context of their ability to efficiently escape local minima when population diversity is low and reach global maxima. Working in this direction will provide further insight into which specific algorithms can successfully continue their search using coordinates set by the user as a starting point, and what factors influence their success.
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Price-Driven CGI Model: Advanced Data Post-Processing and Implementation

Price-Driven CGI Model: Advanced Data Post-Processing and Implementation

In this article, we will explore the development of a fully customizable Price Data export script using MQL5, marking new advancements in the simulation of the Price Man CGI Model. We have implemented advanced refinement techniques to ensure that the data is user-friendly and optimized for animation purposes. Additionally, we will uncover the capabilities of Blender 3D in effectively working with and visualizing price data, demonstrating its potential for creating dynamic and engaging animations.
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Mastering Log Records (Part 9): Implementing the builder pattern and adding default configurations

Mastering Log Records (Part 9): Implementing the builder pattern and adding default configurations

This article shows how to drastically simplify the use of the Logify library with the Builder pattern and automatic default configurations. It explains the structure of the specialized builders, how to use them with smart auto-completion, and how to ensure a functional log even without manual configuration. It also covers tweaks for MetaTrader 5 build 5100.
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Header in the Connexus (Part 3): Mastering the Use of HTTP Headers for Requests

Header in the Connexus (Part 3): Mastering the Use of HTTP Headers for Requests

We continue developing the Connexus library. In this chapter, we explore the concept of headers in the HTTP protocol, explaining what they are, what they are for, and how to use them in requests. We cover the main headers used in communications with APIs, and show practical examples of how to configure them in the library.
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Market Simulation (Part 07): Sockets (I)

Market Simulation (Part 07): Sockets (I)

Sockets. Do you know what they are for or how to use them in MetaTrader 5? If the answer is no, let's start by studying them. In today's article, we'll cover the basics. Since there are several ways to do the same thing, and we are always interested in the result, I want to show that there is indeed a simple way to transfer data from MetaTrader 5 to other programs, such as Excel. However, the main idea is not to transfer data from MetaTrader 5 to Excel, but the opposite, that is, to transfer data from Excel or any other program to MetaTrader 5.