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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MQL5 Trading Tools (Part 16): Improved Super-Sampling Anti-Aliasing (SSAA) and High-Resolution Rendering

We add supersampling‑driven anti‑aliasing and high‑resolution rendering to the MQL5 canvas dashboard, then downsample to the target size. The article implements rounded rectangle fills and borders, rounded triangle arrows, and a custom scrollbar with theming for the stats and text panels. These tools help you build smoother, more legible UI components in MetaTrader 5.

CSV Data Analysis (Part 3): Engineering a Python Analytics Pipeline for MetaTrader 5 CSV Exports

MetaTrader 5 provides rich performance data but limited structural analysis. This article shows how to export results to CSV from MQL5 and build five Python visualizations that expose cross-asset parameter consistency, the lag‑versus‑noise trade-off, walk‑forward decay, drawdown depth and duration, and intraday hour‑by‑day clusters. A unified automation module runs the full pipeline on any new export to deliver repeatable diagnostics.

An Introduction to the Study of Fractal Market Structures Using Machine Learning

The article attempts to examine financial time series from the perspective of self-similar fractal structures. Since we have too many analogies that confirm the possibility of considering market quotes as self-similar fractals, this allows us to think about the forecasting horizons of such structures.

Chemical reaction optimization (CRO) algorithm (Part I): Process chemistry in optimization

In the first part of this article, we will dive into the world of chemical reactions and discover a new approach to optimization! Chemical reaction optimization (CRO) uses principles derived from the laws of thermodynamics to achieve efficient results. We will reveal the secrets of decomposition, synthesis and other chemical processes that became the basis of this innovative method.

An Introduction to the Study of Fractal Market Structures Using Machine Learning

Most notable Artificial Cooperative Search algorithm modifications (ACSm)

Here we will consider the evolution of the ACS algorithm: three modifications aimed at improving the convergence characteristics and the algorithm efficiency. Transformation of one of the leading optimization algorithms. From matrix modifications to revolutionary approaches regarding population formation.

Building Volatility models in MQL5 (Part I): The Initial Implementation

In this article, we present an MQL5 library for modeling volatility, designed to function similarly to Python's arch package. The library currently supports the specification of common conditional mean (HAR, AR, Constant Mean, Zero Mean) and conditional volatility (Constant Variance, ARCH, GARCH) models.

Market Simulation (Part 10): Sockets (IV)

In this article, we'll look at what you need to do to start using Excel to manage MetaTrader 5, but in a very interesting way. To do this, we will use an Excel add-in to avoid using built-in VBA. If you don't know what add-in is meant, read this article and learn how to program in Python directly in Excel.

African Buffalo Optimization (ABO)

The article presents the African Buffalo Optimization (ABO) algorithm, a metaheuristic approach developed in 2015 based on the unique behavior of these animals. The article describes in detail the stages of the algorithm implementation and its efficiency in finding solutions to complex problems, which makes it a valuable tool in the field of optimization.

Dolphin Echolocation Algorithm (DEA)

In this article, we take a closer look at the DEA algorithm, a metaheuristic optimization method inspired by dolphins' unique ability to find prey using echolocation. From mathematical foundations to practical implementation in MQL5, from analysis to comparison with classical algorithms, we will examine in detail why this relatively new method deserves a place in the arsenal of researchers facing optimization problems.

Battle Royale Optimizer (BRO)

The article explores the Battle Royale Optimizer algorithm — a metaheuristic in which solutions compete with their nearest neighbors, accumulate “damage,” are replaced when a threshold is exceeded, and periodically shrink the search space around the current best solution. It presents both pseudocode and an MQL5 implementation of the CAOBRO class, including neighbor search, movement toward the best solution, and an adaptive delta interval. Test results on the Hilly, Forest, and Megacity functions highlight the strengths and limitations of the approach. The reader is provided with a ready-to-use foundation for experimentation and tuning key parameters such as popSize and maxDamage.

The MQL5 Standard Library Explorer (Part 8) : The Hybrid Trades Journal Logging with CFile

In this article, we explore the File Operations classes of the MQL5 Standard Library to build a robust reporting module that automatically generates Excel-ready CSV files. Along the way, we clearly distinguish between manually executed trades and algorithmically executed orders, laying the groundwork for reliable, auditable trade reporting.

Creating an EMA Crossover Forward Simulation Indicator in MQL5

A custom forward simulation engine detects fast/slow EMA crossovers and immediately projects synthetic candles ahead of the signal bar. It generates bodies and wicks using controlled logic, draws them with chart objects, and refreshes on every new signal or anchor change. You get a clear forward-looking view to test timing, visualize scenarios, and manage invalidation on the chart.

Statistical Arbitrage Through Cointegrated Stocks (Part 9): Backtesting Portfolio Weights Updates

This article describes the use of CSV files for backtesting portfolio weights updates in a mean-reversion-based strategy that uses statistical arbitrage through cointegrated stocks. It goes from feeding the database with the results of a Rolling Windows Eigenvector Comparison (RWEC) to comparing the backtest reports. In the meantime, the article details the role of each RWEC parameter and its impact in the overall backtest result, showing how the comparison of the relative drawdown can help us to further improve those parameters.

The MQL5 Standard Library Explorer (Part 10): Polynomial Regression Channel

Today, we explore another component of ALGLIB, leveraging its mathematical capabilities to develop a Polynomial Regression Channel indicator. By the end of this discussion, you will gain practical insights into indicator development using the MQL5 Standard Library, along with a fully functional, mathematically driven indicator source code.

Developing a Replay System (Part 69): Getting the Time Right (II)

Today we will look at why we need the iSpread feature. At the same time, we will understand how the system informs us about the remaining time of the bar when there is not a single tick available for it. 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.

Developing a Replay System (Part 33): Order System (II)

Today we will continue to develop the order system. As you will see, we will be massively reusing what has already been shown in other articles. Nevertheless, you will receive a small reward in this article. First, we will develop a system that can be used with a real trading server, both from a demo account or from a real one. We will make extensive use of the MetaTrader 5 platform, which will provide us with all the necessary support from the beginning.

Market Simulation (Part 19): First Steps with SQL (II)

As we explained in the first article about SQL, there is no point in spending time programming procedures to do what is already built into SQL. However, without knowing the basics, you won’t be able to do anything with SQL or take full advantage of everything this tool offers. Therefore, in this article, we will look at how to perform basic tasks in databases.

Brain Storm Optimization algorithm (Part I): Clustering

In this article, we will look at an innovative optimization method called BSO (Brain Storm Optimization) inspired by a natural phenomenon called "brainstorming". We will also discuss a new approach to solving multimodal optimization problems the BSO method applies. It allows finding multiple optimal solutions without the need to pre-determine the number of subpopulations. We will also consider the K-Means and K-Means++ clustering methods.

Developing an MQTT client for MetaTrader 5: a TDD approach — Part 2

This article is part of a series describing our development steps of a native MQL5 client for the MQTT protocol. In this part we describe our code organization, the first header files and classes, and how we are writing our tests. This article also includes brief notes about the Test-Driven-Development practice and how we are applying it to this project.

Mutual information as criteria for Stepwise Feature Selection

In this article, we present an MQL5 implementation of Stepwise Feature Selection based on the mutual information between an optimal predictor set and a target variable.

MQL5 Wizard Techniques You Should Know (Part 15): Support Vector Machines with Newton's Polynomial

Support Vector Machines classify data based on predefined classes by exploring the effects of increasing its dimensionality. It is a supervised learning method that is fairly complex given its potential to deal with multi-dimensioned data. For this article we consider how it’s very basic implementation of 2-dimensioned data can be done more efficiently with Newton’s Polynomial when classifying price-action.

Hybridization of population algorithms. Sequential and parallel structures

Here we will dive into the world of hybridization of optimization algorithms by looking at three key types: strategy mixing, sequential and parallel hybridization. We will conduct a series of experiments combining and testing relevant optimization algorithms.

Generative Adversarial Networks (GANs) for Synthetic Data in Financial Modeling (Part 2): Creating Synthetic Symbol for Testing

In this article we are creating a synthetic symbol using a Generative Adversarial Network (GAN) involves generating realistic Financial data that mimics the behavior of actual market instruments, such as EURUSD. The GAN model learns patterns and volatility from historical market data and creates synthetic price data with similar characteristics.

Ordinal Encoding for Nominal Variables

In this article, we discuss and demonstrate how to convert nominal predictors into numerical formats that are suitable for machine learning algorithms, using both Python and MQL5.

Market Simulation (Part 02): Cross Orders (II)

Unlike what was done in the previous article, here we will test the selection option using an Expert Advisor. Although this is not a final solution yet, it will be enough for now. With the help of this article, you will be able to understand how to implement one of the possible solutions.

Camel Algorithm (CA)

The Camel Algorithm, developed in 2016, simulates the behavior of camels in the desert to solve optimization problems, taking into account temperature, supply, and endurance. This article also presents a modified version of the algorithm (CAm) with key improvements: the use of a Gaussian distribution in generating solutions and the optimization of the oasis effect parameters.

The MQL5 Standard Library Explorer (Part 11): How to Build a Matrix-Based Market Structure Indicator in MQL5

Learn to engineer an MQL5 indicator that converts trend, momentum, and volatility into a single raw score using a matrix.mqh (ALGLIB). The article covers a separate‑window oscillator to validate the core mathematics, then a main‑chart indicator that plots non‑repainting buy/sell arrows when the score crosses user‑defined thresholds. An optional long‑term EMA filter, a minimum‑bar cooldown, and built‑in alerts make the tool practical for live trading.

Category Theory in MQL5 (Part 12): Orders

This article which is part of a series that follows Category Theory implementation of Graphs in MQL5, delves in Orders. We examine how concepts of Order-Theory can support monoid sets in informing trade decisions by considering two major ordering types.

MQL5 Wizard Techniques you should know (Part 68): Using Patterns of TRIX and the Williams Percent Range with a Cosine Kernel Network

We follow up our last article, where we introduced the indicator pair of TRIX and Williams Percent Range, by considering how this indicator pairing could be extended with Machine Learning. TRIX and William’s Percent are a trend and support/ resistance complimentary pairing. Our machine learning approach uses a convolution neural network that engages the cosine kernel in its architecture when fine-tuning the forecasts of this indicator pairing. As always, this is done in a custom signal class file that works with the MQL5 wizard to assemble an Expert Advisor.

Market Simulation (Part 09): Sockets (III)

Today's article is a continuation of the previous one. We will look at the implementation of an Expert Advisor, focusing mainly on how the server code is executed. The code given in the previous article is not enough to make everything work as expected, so we need to dig a little deeper into it. Therefore, it is necessary to read both articles to better understand what will happen.

Neural Networks in Trading: Multi-Task Learning Based on the ResNeXt Model (Final Part)

We continue exploring a multi-task learning framework based on ResNeXt, which is characterized by modularity, high computational efficiency, and the ability to identify stable patterns in data. Using a single encoder and specialized "heads" reduces the risk of model overfitting and improves the quality of forecasts.

Market Simulation (Part 17): Sockets (XI)

The implementation of the part of the code that will run in MetaTrader 5 does not present any difficulty. However, there are several points that need to be taken into account. This is necessary so that you can make the system work. Remember one important thing: not just one program will be running. In reality, we will have to run three programs simultaneously. It is important to implement and structure each of them in such a way that they can interact and communicate with one another, and that each of them understands what the others are trying or intending to do.

Applying Localized Feature Selection in Python and MQL5

This article explores a feature selection algorithm introduced in the paper 'Local Feature Selection for Data Classification' by Narges Armanfard et al. The algorithm is implemented in Python to build binary classifier models that can be integrated with MetaTrader 5 applications for inference.

Artificial Tribe Algorithm (ATA)

The article provides a detailed discussion of the key components and innovations of the ATA optimization algorithm, which is an evolutionary method with a unique dual behavior system that adapts depending on the situation. ATA combines individual and social learning while using crossover for explorations and migration to find solutions when stuck in local optima.

Chaos optimization algorithm (COA): Continued

We continue studying the chaotic optimization algorithm. The second part of the article deals with the practical aspects of the algorithm implementation, its testing and conclusions.

From Basic to Intermediate: Variables (II)

Today we will look at how to work with static variables. This question often confuses many programmers, both beginners and those with some experience, because there are several recommendations that must be followed when using this mechanism. The materials presented here are intended for didactic purposes only. Under no circumstances should the application be viewed for any purpose other than to learn and master the concepts presented.

Central Force Optimization (CFO) algorithm