Articles with examples of trading robots developed in MQL5

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An Expert Advisor is the 'pinnacle' of programming and the desired goal of every automated trading developer. Read the articles in this section to create your own trading robot. By following the described steps you will learn how to create, debug and test automated trading systems.

The articles not only teach MQL5 programming, but also show how to implement trading ideas and techniques. You will learn how to program a trailing stop, how to apply money management, how to get the indicator values, and much more.

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MQL5 Cookbook: Analyzing Position Properties in the MetaTrader 5 Strategy Tester
MQL5 Cookbook: Analyzing Position Properties in the MetaTrader 5 Strategy Tester

MQL5 Cookbook: Analyzing Position Properties in the MetaTrader 5 Strategy Tester

We will present a modified version of the Expert Advisor from the previous article "MQL5 Cookbook: Position Properties on the Custom Info Panel". Some of the issues we will address include getting data from bars, checking for new bar events on the current symbol, including a trade class of the Standard Library to a file, creating a function to search for trading signals and a function for executing trading operations, as well as determining trade events in the OnTrade() function.
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Automating Trading Strategies in MQL5 (Part 13): Building a Head and Shoulders Trading Algorithm

Automating Trading Strategies in MQL5 (Part 13): Building a Head and Shoulders Trading Algorithm

In this article, we automate the Head and Shoulders pattern in MQL5. We analyze its architecture, implement an EA to detect and trade it, and backtest the results. The process reveals a practical trading algorithm with room for refinement.
Graphical Interfaces X: Sorting, rebuilding the table and controls in the cells (build 11)
Graphical Interfaces X: Sorting, rebuilding the table and controls in the cells (build 11)

Graphical Interfaces X: Sorting, rebuilding the table and controls in the cells (build 11)

We continue to add new features to the rendered table: data sorting, managing the number of columns and rows, setting the table cell types to place controls into them.
Graphical Interfaces XI: Integrating the Standard Graphics Library (build 16)
Graphical Interfaces XI: Integrating the Standard Graphics Library (build 16)

Graphical Interfaces XI: Integrating the Standard Graphics Library (build 16)

A new version of the graphics library for creating scientific charts (the CGraphic class) has been presented recently. This update of the developed library for creating graphical interfaces will introduce a version with a new control for creating charts. Now it is even easier to visualize data of different types.
Graphical Interfaces V: The List View Element (Chapter 2)
Graphical Interfaces V: The List View Element (Chapter 2)

Graphical Interfaces V: The List View Element (Chapter 2)

In the previous chapter, we wrote classes for creating vertical and horizontal scrollbars. In this chapter, we will implement them. We will write a class for creating the list view element, a compound part of which will be a vertical scrollbar.
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Developing a Volatility Based Breakout System

Developing a Volatility Based Breakout System

Volatility based breakout system identifies market ranges, then trades when price breaks above or below those levels, filtered by volatility measures such as ATR. This approach helps capture strong directional moves.
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Automating Trading Strategies in MQL5 (Part 34): Trendline Breakout System with R-Squared Goodness of Fit

Automating Trading Strategies in MQL5 (Part 34): Trendline Breakout System with R-Squared Goodness of Fit

In this article, we develop a Trendline Breakout System in MQL5 that identifies support and resistance trendlines using swing points, validated by R-squared goodness of fit and angle constraints, to automate breakout trades. Our plan is to detect swing highs and lows within a specified lookback period, construct trendlines with a minimum number of touch points, and validate them using R-squared metrics and angle constraints to ensure reliability.
Movement continuation model - searching on the chart and execution statistics
Movement continuation model - searching on the chart and execution statistics

Movement continuation model - searching on the chart and execution statistics

This article provides programmatic definition of one of the movement continuation models. The main idea is defining two waves — the main and the correction one. For extreme points, I apply fractals as well as "potential" fractals - extreme points that have not yet formed as fractals.
Graphical Interfaces XI: Text edit boxes and Combo boxes in table cells (build 15)
Graphical Interfaces XI: Text edit boxes and Combo boxes in table cells (build 15)

Graphical Interfaces XI: Text edit boxes and Combo boxes in table cells (build 15)

In this update of the library, the Table control (the CTable class) will be supplemented with new options. The lineup of controls in the table cells is expanded, this time adding text edit boxes and combo boxes. As an addition, this update also introduces the ability to resize the window of an MQL application during its runtime.
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Neural networks made easy (Part 29): Advantage Actor-Critic algorithm

Neural networks made easy (Part 29): Advantage Actor-Critic algorithm

In the previous articles of this series, we have seen two reinforced learning algorithms. Each of them has its own advantages and disadvantages. As often happens in such cases, next comes the idea to combine both methods into an algorithm, using the best of the two. This would compensate for the shortcomings of each of them. One of such methods will be discussed in this article.
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Advanced Order Execution Algorithms in MQL5: TWAP, VWAP, and Iceberg Orders

Advanced Order Execution Algorithms in MQL5: TWAP, VWAP, and Iceberg Orders

An MQL5 framework that brings institutional-grade execution algorithms (TWAP, VWAP, Iceberg) to retail traders through a unified execution manager and performance analyzer for smoother, more precise order slicing and analytics.
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Automating Trading Strategies in MQL5 (Part 17): Mastering the Grid-Mart Scalping Strategy with a Dynamic Dashboard

Automating Trading Strategies in MQL5 (Part 17): Mastering the Grid-Mart Scalping Strategy with a Dynamic Dashboard

In this article, we explore the Grid-Mart Scalping Strategy, automating it in MQL5 with a dynamic dashboard for real-time trading insights. We detail its grid-based Martingale logic and risk management features. We also guide backtesting and deployment for robust performance.
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Neural networks made easy (Part 5): Multithreaded calculations in OpenCL

Neural networks made easy (Part 5): Multithreaded calculations in OpenCL

We have earlier discussed some types of neural network implementations. In the considered networks, the same operations are repeated for each neuron. A logical further step is to utilize multithreaded computing capabilities provided by modern technology in an effort to speed up the neural network learning process. One of the possible implementations is described in this article.
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Building a Professional Trading System with Heikin Ashi (Part 2): Developing an EA

Building a Professional Trading System with Heikin Ashi (Part 2): Developing an EA

This article explains how to develop a professional Heikin Ashi-based Expert Advisor (EA) in MQL5. You will learn how to set up input parameters, enumerations, indicators, global variables, and implement the core trading logic. You will also be able to run a backtest on gold to validate your work.
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Automating Trading Strategies in MQL5 (Part 4): Building a Multi-Level Zone Recovery System

Automating Trading Strategies in MQL5 (Part 4): Building a Multi-Level Zone Recovery System

In this article, we develop a Multi-Level Zone Recovery System in MQL5 that utilizes RSI to generate trading signals. Each signal instance is dynamically added to an array structure, allowing the system to manage multiple signals simultaneously within the Zone Recovery logic. Through this approach, we demonstrate how to handle complex trade management scenarios effectively while maintaining a scalable and robust code design.
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Automating Trading Strategies in MQL5 (Part 14): Trade Layering Strategy with MACD-RSI Statistical Methods

Automating Trading Strategies in MQL5 (Part 14): Trade Layering Strategy with MACD-RSI Statistical Methods

In this article, we introduce a trade layering strategy that combines MACD and RSI indicators with statistical methods to automate dynamic trading in MQL5. We explore the architecture of this cascading approach, detail its implementation through key code segments, and guide readers on backtesting to optimize performance. Finally, we conclude by highlighting the strategy’s potential and setting the stage for further enhancements in automated trading.
Optimal approach to the development and analysis of trading systems
Optimal approach to the development and analysis of trading systems

Optimal approach to the development and analysis of trading systems

In this article, I will show the criteria to be used when selecting a system or a signal for investing your funds, as well as describe the optimal approach to the development of trading systems and highlight the importance of this matter in Forex trading.
Graphical Interfaces XI: Rendered controls (build 14.2)
Graphical Interfaces XI: Rendered controls (build 14.2)

Graphical Interfaces XI: Rendered controls (build 14.2)

In the new version of the library, all controls will be drawn on separate graphical objects of the OBJ_BITMAP_LABEL type. We will also continue to describe the optimization of code: changes in the core classes of the library will be discussed.
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Neural Networks Made Easy (Part 96): Multi-Scale Feature Extraction (MSFformer)

Neural Networks Made Easy (Part 96): Multi-Scale Feature Extraction (MSFformer)

Efficient extraction and integration of long-term dependencies and short-term features remain an important task in time series analysis. Their proper understanding and integration are necessary to create accurate and reliable predictive models.
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Trailing stop in trading

Trailing stop in trading

In this article, we will look at the use of a trailing stop in trading. We will assess how useful and effective it is, and how it can be used. The efficiency of a trailing stop largely depends on price volatility and the selection of the stop loss level. A variety of approaches can be used to set a stop loss.
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Cascade Order Trading Strategy Based on EMA Crossovers for MetaTrader 5

Cascade Order Trading Strategy Based on EMA Crossovers for MetaTrader 5

The article guides in demonstrating an automated algorithm based on EMA Crossovers for MetaTrader 5. Detailed information on all aspects of demonstrating an Expert Advisor in MQL5 and testing it in MetaTrader 5 - from analyzing price range behaviors to risk management.
Optimization. A Few Simple Ideas
Optimization. A Few Simple Ideas

Optimization. A Few Simple Ideas

The optimization process can require significant resources of your computer or even of the MQL5 Cloud Network test agents. This article comprises some simple ideas that I use for work facilitation and improvement of the MetaTrader 5 Strategy Tester. I got these ideas from the documentation, forum and articles.
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How to Implement Auto Optimization in MQL5 Expert Advisors

How to Implement Auto Optimization in MQL5 Expert Advisors

Step by step guide for auto optimization in MQL5 for Expert Advisors. We will cover robust optimization logic, best practices for parameter selection, and how to reconstruct strategies with back-testing. Additionally, higher-level methods like walk-forward optimization will be discussed to enhance your trading approach.
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Developing a trading Expert Advisor from scratch (Part 21): New order system (IV)

Developing a trading Expert Advisor from scratch (Part 21): New order system (IV)

Finally, the visual system will start working, although it will not yet be completed. Here we will finish making the main changes. There will be quite a few of them, but they are all necessary. Well, the whole work will be quite interesting.
Raise Your Linear Trading Systems to the Power
Raise Your Linear Trading Systems to the Power

Raise Your Linear Trading Systems to the Power

Today's article shows intermediate MQL5 programmers how they can get more profit from their linear trading systems (Fixed Lot) by easily implementing the so-called technique of exponentiation. This is because the resulting equity curve growth is then geometric, or exponential, taking the form of a parabola. Specifically, we will implement a practical MQL5 variant of the Fixed Fractional position sizing developed by Ralph Vince.
MQL5 Cookbook - Multi-Currency Expert Advisor and Working with Pending Orders in MQL5
MQL5 Cookbook - Multi-Currency Expert Advisor and Working with Pending Orders in MQL5

MQL5 Cookbook - Multi-Currency Expert Advisor and Working with Pending Orders in MQL5

This time we are going to create a multi-currency Expert Advisor with a trading algorithm based on work with the pending orders Buy Stop and Sell Stop. This article considers the following matters: trading in a specified time range, placing/modifying/deleting pending orders, checking if the last position was closed at Take Profit or Stop Loss and control of the deals history for each symbol.
Graphical Interfaces II: Setting Up the Event Handlers of the Library (Chapter 3)
Graphical Interfaces II: Setting Up the Event Handlers of the Library (Chapter 3)

Graphical Interfaces II: Setting Up the Event Handlers of the Library (Chapter 3)

The previous articles contain the implementation of the classes for creating constituent parts of the main menu. Now, it is time to take a close look at the event handlers in the principle base classes and in the classes of the created controls. We will also pay special attention to managing the state of the chart depending on the location of the mouse cursor.
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Neural networks made easy (Part 6): Experimenting with the neural network learning rate

Neural networks made easy (Part 6): Experimenting with the neural network learning rate

We have previously considered various types of neural networks along with their implementations. In all cases, the neural networks were trained using the gradient decent method, for which we need to choose a learning rate. In this article, I want to show the importance of a correctly selected rate and its impact on the neural network training, using examples.
Building a Social Technology Startup, Part I: Tweet Your MetaTrader 5 Signals
Building a Social Technology Startup, Part I: Tweet Your MetaTrader 5 Signals

Building a Social Technology Startup, Part I: Tweet Your MetaTrader 5 Signals

Today we will learn how to link an MetaTrader 5 terminal with Twitter so that you can tweet your EAs' trading signals. We are developing a Social Decision Support System in PHP based on a RESTful web service. This idea comes from a particular conception of automatic trading called computer-assisted trading. We want the cognitive abilities of human traders to filter those trading signals which otherwise would be automatically placed on the market by the Expert Advisors.
Programming EA's Modes Using Object-Oriented Approach
Programming EA's Modes Using Object-Oriented Approach

Programming EA's Modes Using Object-Oriented Approach

This article explains the idea of multi-mode trading robot programming in MQL5. Every mode is implemented with the object-oriented approach. Instances of both mode classes hierarchy and classes for testing are provided. Multi-mode programming of trading robots is supposed to take into account all peculiarities of every operational mode of an EA written in MQL5. Functions and enumeration are created for identifying the mode.
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How to create a simple Multi-Currency Expert Advisor using MQL5 (Part 6): Two RSI indicators cross each other's lines

How to create a simple Multi-Currency Expert Advisor using MQL5 (Part 6): Two RSI indicators cross each other's lines

The multi-currency expert advisor in this article is an expert advisor or trading robot that uses two RSI indicators with crossing lines, the Fast RSI which crosses with the Slow RSI.
How to Quickly Create an Expert Advisor for Automated Trading Championship 2010
How to Quickly Create an Expert Advisor for Automated Trading Championship 2010

How to Quickly Create an Expert Advisor for Automated Trading Championship 2010

In order to develop an expert to participate in Automated Trading Championship 2010, let's use a template of ready expert advisor. Even novice MQL5 programmer will be capable of this task, because for your strategies the basic classes, functions, templates are already developed. It's enough to write a minimal amount of code to implement your trading idea.
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Larry Williams Market Secrets (Part 4): Automating Short-Term Swing Highs and Lows in MQL5

Larry Williams Market Secrets (Part 4): Automating Short-Term Swing Highs and Lows in MQL5

Master the automation of Larry Williams’ short-term swing patterns using MQL5. In this guide, we develop a fully configurable Expert Advisor (EA) that leverages non-random market structures. We’ll cover how to integrate robust risk management and flexible exit logic, providing a solid foundation for systematic strategy development and backtesting.
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How to create a trading journal with MetaTrader and Google Sheets

How to create a trading journal with MetaTrader and Google Sheets

Create a trading journal using MetaTrader and Google Sheets! You will learn how to sync your trading data via HTTP POST and retrieve it using HTTP requests. In the end, You have a trading journal that will help you keep track of your trades effectively and efficiently.
Graphical Interfaces VIII: the File Navigator Control (Chapter 3)
Graphical Interfaces VIII: the File Navigator Control (Chapter 3)

Graphical Interfaces VIII: the File Navigator Control (Chapter 3)

In the previous chapters of the eighth part of the series, our library has been reinforced by several classes for developing mouse pointers, calendars and tree views. The current article deals with the file navigator control that can also be used as part of an MQL application graphical interface.
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Developing a trading Expert Advisor from scratch (Part 18): New order system (I)

Developing a trading Expert Advisor from scratch (Part 18): New order system (I)

This is the first part of the new order system. Since we started documenting this EA in our articles, it has undergone various changes and improvements while maintaining the same on-chart order system model.
Prices in DoEasy library (part 63): Depth of Market and its abstract request class
Prices in DoEasy library (part 63): Depth of Market and its abstract request class

Prices in DoEasy library (part 63): Depth of Market and its abstract request class

In the article, I will start developing the functionality for working with the Depth of Market. I will also create the class of the Depth of Market abstract order object and its descendants.
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Creating an EA that works automatically (Part 11): Automation (III)

Creating an EA that works automatically (Part 11): Automation (III)

An automated system will not be successful without proper security. However, security will not be ensured without a good understanding of certain things. In this article, we will explore why achieving maximum security in automated systems is such a challenge.
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Revisiting an Old Trend Trading Strategy: Two Stochastic oscillators, a MA and Fibonacci

Revisiting an Old Trend Trading Strategy: Two Stochastic oscillators, a MA and Fibonacci

Old trading strategies. This article presents one of the strategies used to follow the trend in a purely technical way. The strategy is purely technical and uses a few technical indicators and tools to deliver signals and targets. The components of the strategy are as follows: A 14-period stochastic oscillator. A 5-period stochastic oscillator. A 200-period moving average. A Fibonacci projection tool (for target setting).
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Multiple indicators on one chart (Part 06): Turning MetaTrader 5 into a RAD system (II)

Multiple indicators on one chart (Part 06): Turning MetaTrader 5 into a RAD system (II)

In my previous article, I showed you how to create a Chart Trade using MetaTrader 5 objects and thus to turn the platform into a RAD system. The system works very well, and for sure many of the readers might have thought about creating a library, which would allow having extended functionality in the proposed system. Based on this, it would be possible to develop a more intuitive Expert Advisor with a nicer and easier to use interface.