Articles on trading system automation in MQL5

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Read articles on the trading systems with a wide variety of ideas at the core. Learn how to use statistical methods and patterns on candlestick charts, how to filter signals and where to use semaphore indicators.

The MQL5 Wizard will help you create robots without programming to quickly check your trading ideas. Use the Wizard to learn about genetic algorithms.

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Risk Management (Part 2): Implementing Lot Calculation in a Graphical Interface

Risk Management (Part 2): Implementing Lot Calculation in a Graphical Interface

In this article, we will look at how to improve and more effectively apply the concepts presented in the previous article using the powerful MQL5 graphical control libraries. We'll go step by step through the process of creating a fully functional GUI. I'll be explaining the ideas behind it, as well as the purpose and operation of each method used. Additionally, at the end of the article, we will test the panel we created to ensure it functions correctly and meets its stated goals.
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Engineering Trading Discipline into Code (Part 3): Enforcing Symbol-Level Trading Boundaries with a Whitelist System in MQL5

Engineering Trading Discipline into Code (Part 3): Enforcing Symbol-Level Trading Boundaries with a Whitelist System in MQL5

This article details an MQL5 framework that restricts trading to an approved set of symbols. The solution combines a shared library, a configuration dashboard, and an enforcement Expert Advisor that validates each trade against a whitelist and logs blocked attempts. It includes fully functional code examples, a clear explanation of the structural design decisions, and validation tests that confirm reliable symbol filtering, controlled market exposure, and transparent monitoring of rule enforcement.
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Price Action Analysis Toolkit Development (Part 60):  Objective Swing-Based Trendlines for Structural Analysis

Price Action Analysis Toolkit Development (Part 60): Objective Swing-Based Trendlines for Structural Analysis

We present a rule-based approach to trendlines that avoids indicator pivots and uses ordered swings derived from raw prices. The article walks through swing detection, size qualification via ATR or fixed thresholds, and validation of ascending and descending structures, then implements these rules in MQL5 with non-repainting drawing and selective output. You get a clear, repeatable way to track structural support and resistance that holds up across market conditions.
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Statistical Arbitrage Through Cointegrated Stocks (Part 1): Engle-Granger and Johansen Cointegration Tests

Statistical Arbitrage Through Cointegrated Stocks (Part 1): Engle-Granger and Johansen Cointegration Tests

This article aims to provide a trader-friendly, gentle introduction to the most common cointegration tests, along with a simple guide to understanding their results. The Engle-Granger and Johansen cointegration tests can reveal statistically significant pairs or groups of assets that share long-term dynamics. The Johansen test is especially useful for portfolios with three or more assets, as it calculates the strength of cointegrating vectors all at once.
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Creating an EA that works automatically (Part 07): Account types (II)

Creating an EA that works automatically (Part 07): Account types (II)

Today we'll see how to create an Expert Advisor that simply and safely works in automatic mode. The trader should always be aware of what the automatic EA is doing, so that if it "goes off the rails", the trader could remove it from the chart as soon as possible and take control of the situation.
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Developing a multi-currency Expert Advisor (Part 17): Further preparation for real trading

Developing a multi-currency Expert Advisor (Part 17): Further preparation for real trading

Currently, our EA uses the database to obtain initialization strings for single instances of trading strategies. However, the database is quite large and contains a lot of information that is not needed for the actual EA operation. Let's try to ensure the EA's functionality without a mandatory connection to the database.
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MQL5 Trading Tools (Part 7): Informational Dashboard for Multi-Symbol Position and Account Monitoring

MQL5 Trading Tools (Part 7): Informational Dashboard for Multi-Symbol Position and Account Monitoring

In this article, we develop an informational dashboard in MQL5 for monitoring multi-symbol positions and account metrics like balance, equity, and free margin. We implement a sortable grid with real-time updates, CSV export, and a glowing header effect to enhance usability and visual appeal.
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MQL5 Trading Tools (Part 21): Adding Cyberpunk Theme to Regression Graphs

MQL5 Trading Tools (Part 21): Adding Cyberpunk Theme to Regression Graphs

In this article, we enhance the regression graphing tool in MQL5 by adding a cyberpunk theme mode with neon glows, animations, and holographic effects for immersive visualization. We integrate theme toggling, dynamic backgrounds with stars, glowing borders, and neon points/lines, while maintaining standard mode compatibility. This dual-theme system elevates pair analysis with futuristic aesthetics, supporting real-time updates and interactions for engaging trading insights.
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MQL5 Wizard Techniques you should know (Part 71): Using Patterns of MACD and the OBV

MQL5 Wizard Techniques you should know (Part 71): Using Patterns of MACD and the OBV

The Moving-Average-Convergence-Divergence (MACD) oscillator and the On-Balance-Volume (OBV) oscillator are another pair of indicators that could be used in conjunction within an MQL5 Expert Advisor. This pairing, as is practice in these article series, is complementary with the MACD affirming trends while OBV checks volume. As usual, we use the MQL5 wizard to build and test any potential these two may possess.
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Implementing of a Breakeven Mechanism in MQL5 (Part 1): Base Class and Fixed-Points Breakeven Mode

Implementing of a Breakeven Mechanism in MQL5 (Part 1): Base Class and Fixed-Points Breakeven Mode

This article discusses the application of a breakeven mechanism in automated strategies using the MQL5 language. We will start with a simple explanation of what the breakeven mode is, how it is implemented, and its possible variations. Next, this functionality will be integrated into the Order Blocks expert advisor, which we created in our last article on risk management. To evaluate its effectiveness, we will run two backtests under specific conditions: one using the breakeven mechanism and the other without it.
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Integrate Your Own LLM into EA (Part 5): Develop and Test Trading Strategy with LLMs (III) – Adapter-Tuning

Integrate Your Own LLM into EA (Part 5): Develop and Test Trading Strategy with LLMs (III) – Adapter-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.
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Building A Candlestick Trend Constraint Model (Part 1): For EAs And Technical Indicators

Building A Candlestick Trend Constraint Model (Part 1): For EAs And Technical Indicators

This article is aimed at beginners and pro-MQL5 developers. It provides a piece of code to define and constrain signal-generating indicators to trends in higher timeframes. In this way, traders can enhance their strategies by incorporating a broader market perspective, leading to potentially more robust and reliable trading signals.
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Expert Advisor based on the universal MLP approximator

Expert Advisor based on the universal MLP approximator

The article presents a simple and accessible way to use a neural network in a trading EA that does not require deep knowledge of machine learning. The method eliminates the target function normalization, as well as overcomes "weight explosion" and "network stall" issues offering intuitive training and visual control of the results.
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Non-linear regression models on the stock exchange

Non-linear regression models on the stock exchange

Non-linear regression models on the stock exchange: Is it possible to predict financial markets? Let's consider creating a model for forecasting prices for EURUSD, and make two robots based on it - in Python and MQL5.
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Experiments with neural networks (Part 7): Passing indicators

Experiments with neural networks (Part 7): Passing indicators

Examples of passing indicators to a perceptron. The article describes general concepts and showcases the simplest ready-made Expert Advisor followed by the results of its optimization and forward test.
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Creating Custom Indicators in MQL5 (Part 4): Smart WaveTrend Crossover with Dual Oscillators

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.
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MQL5 Trading Tools (Part 6): Dynamic Holographic Dashboard with Pulse Animations and Controls

MQL5 Trading Tools (Part 6): Dynamic Holographic Dashboard with Pulse Animations and Controls

In this article, we create a dynamic holographic dashboard in MQL5 for monitoring symbols and timeframes with RSI, volatility alerts, and sorting options. We add pulse animations, interactive buttons, and holographic effects to make the tool visually engaging and responsive.
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Introduction to MQL5 (Part 20): Introduction to Harmonic Patterns

Introduction to MQL5 (Part 20): Introduction to Harmonic Patterns

In this article, we explore the fundamentals of harmonic patterns, their structures, and how they are applied in trading. You’ll learn about Fibonacci retracements, extensions, and how to implement harmonic pattern detection in MQL5, setting the foundation for building advanced trading tools and Expert Advisors.
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Timeseries in DoEasy library (part 51): Composite multi-period multi-symbol standard indicators

Timeseries in DoEasy library (part 51): Composite multi-period multi-symbol standard indicators

In the article, complete development of objects of multi-period multi-symbol standard indicators. Using Ichimoku Kinko Hyo standard indicator example, analyze creation of compound custom indicators which have auxiliary drawn buffers for displaying data on the chart.
Expert Advisors Based on Popular Trading Systems and Alchemy of Trading Robot Optimization (Part VII)
Expert Advisors Based on Popular Trading Systems and Alchemy of Trading Robot Optimization (Part VII)

Expert Advisors Based on Popular Trading Systems and Alchemy of Trading Robot Optimization (Part VII)

In this article, the author gives an example Expert Advisor meeting the requirements stated in the Rules of the Automated Trading Championship 2008
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Price Action Analysis Toolkit Development (Part 2):  Analytical Comment Script

Price Action Analysis Toolkit Development (Part 2): Analytical Comment Script

Aligned with our vision of simplifying price action, we are pleased to introduce another tool that can significantly enhance your market analysis and help you make well-informed decisions. This tool displays key technical indicators such as previous day's prices, significant support and resistance levels, and trading volume, while automatically generating visual cues on the chart.
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Category Theory in MQL5 (Part 8): Monoids

Category Theory in MQL5 (Part 8): Monoids

This article continues the series on category theory implementation in MQL5. Here we introduce monoids as domain (set) that sets category theory apart from other data classification methods by including rules and an identity element.
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Developing a Replay System (Part 53): Things Get Complicated (V)

Developing a Replay System (Part 53): Things Get Complicated (V)

In this article, we'll cover an important topic that few people understand: Custom Events. Dangers. Advantages and disadvantages of these elements. This topic is key for those who want to become a professional programmer in MQL5 or any other language. Here we will focus on MQL5 and MetaTrader 5.
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Neural networks made easy (Part 58): Decision Transformer (DT)

Neural networks made easy (Part 58): Decision Transformer (DT)

We continue to explore reinforcement learning methods. In this article, I will focus on a slightly different algorithm that considers the Agent’s policy in the paradigm of constructing a sequence of actions.
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Developing a multi-currency Expert Advisor (Part 12): Developing prop trading level risk manager

Developing a multi-currency Expert Advisor (Part 12): Developing prop trading level risk manager

In the EA being developed, we already have a certain mechanism for controlling drawdown. But it is probabilistic in nature, as it is based on the results of testing on historical price data. Therefore, the drawdown can sometimes exceed the maximum expected values (although with a small probability). Let's try to add a mechanism that ensures guaranteed compliance with the specified drawdown level.
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Neural networks made easy (Part 23): Building a tool for Transfer Learning

Neural networks made easy (Part 23): Building a tool for Transfer Learning

In this series of articles, we have already mentioned Transfer Learning more than once. However, this was only mentioning. in this article, I suggest filling this gap and taking a closer look at Transfer Learning.
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Finding custom currency pair patterns in Python using MetaTrader 5

Finding custom currency pair patterns in Python using MetaTrader 5

Are there any repeating patterns and regularities in the Forex market? I decided to create my own pattern analysis system using Python and MetaTrader 5. A kind of symbiosis of math and programming for conquering Forex.
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Neural Networks Made Easy (Part 88): Time-Series Dense Encoder (TiDE)

Neural Networks Made Easy (Part 88): Time-Series Dense Encoder (TiDE)

In an attempt to obtain the most accurate forecasts, researchers often complicate forecasting models. Which in turn leads to increased model training and maintenance costs. Is such an increase always justified? This article introduces an algorithm that uses the simplicity and speed of linear models and demonstrates results on par with the best models with a more complex architecture.
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Developing a multi-currency Expert Advisor (Part 2): Transition to virtual positions of trading strategies

Developing a multi-currency Expert Advisor (Part 2): Transition to virtual positions of trading strategies

Let's continue developing a multi-currency EA with several strategies working in parallel. Let's try to move all the work associated with opening market positions from the strategy level to the level of the EA managing the strategies. The strategies themselves will trade only virtually, without opening market positions.
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MQL5 Trading Toolkit (Part 1): Developing A Positions Management EX5 Library

MQL5 Trading Toolkit (Part 1): Developing A Positions Management EX5 Library

Learn how to create a developer's toolkit for managing various position operations with MQL5. In this article, I will demonstrate how to create a library of functions (ex5) that will perform simple to advanced position management operations, including automatic handling and reporting of the different errors that arise when dealing with position management tasks with MQL5.
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MQL5 Trading Toolkit (Part 8): How to Implement and Use the History Manager EX5 Library in Your Codebase

MQL5 Trading Toolkit (Part 8): How to Implement and Use the History Manager EX5 Library in Your Codebase

Discover how to effortlessly import and utilize the History Manager EX5 library in your MQL5 source code to process trade histories in your MetaTrader 5 account in this series' final article. With simple one-line function calls in MQL5, you can efficiently manage and analyze your trading data. Additionally, you will learn how to create different trade history analytics scripts and develop a price-based Expert Advisor as practical use-case examples. The example EA leverages price data and the History Manager EX5 library to make informed trading decisions, adjust trade volumes, and implement recovery strategies based on previously closed trades.
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Integrate Your Own LLM into EA (Part 2): Example of Environment Deployment

Integrate Your Own LLM into EA (Part 2): Example of Environment Deployment

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.
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Trading Robot Based on a GPT Language Model

Trading Robot Based on a GPT Language Model

The article presents a complete implementation of TimeGPT, a specialized Transformer-based architecture for forecasting financial time series on the MetaTrader 5 platform. Adaptation of the attention mechanism to financial data, selective tokenization of price changes, hardware-aware optimizations, and advanced learning techniques are discussed. Included are practical testing results showing 87% forecast accuracy over a 24-bar horizon with a training time of 15 minutes on the CPU. We also present a ready-made trading EA with automatic retraining.
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Neural networks made easy (Part 73): AutoBots for predicting price movements

Neural networks made easy (Part 73): AutoBots for predicting price movements

We continue to discuss algorithms for training trajectory prediction models. In this article, we will get acquainted with a method called "AutoBots".
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Data Science and ML (Part 42): Forex Time series Forecasting using ARIMA in Python, Everything you need to Know

Data Science and ML (Part 42): Forex Time series Forecasting using ARIMA in Python, Everything you need to Know

ARIMA, short for Auto Regressive Integrated Moving Average, is a powerful traditional time series forecasting model. With the ability to detect spikes and fluctuations in a time series data, this model can make accurate predictions on the next values. In this article, we are going to understand what is it, how it operates, what you can do with it when it comes to predicting the next prices in the market with high accuracy and much more.
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Self Optimizing Expert Advisors in MQL5 (Part 17): Ensemble Intelligence

Self Optimizing Expert Advisors in MQL5 (Part 17): Ensemble Intelligence

All algorithmic trading strategies are difficult to set up and maintain, regardless of complexity—a challenge shared by beginners and experts alike. This article introduces an ensemble framework where supervised models and human intuition work together to overcome their shared limitations. By aligning a moving average channel strategy with a Ridge Regression model on the same indicators, we achieve centralized control, faster self-correction, and profitability from otherwise unprofitable systems.
Considering Orders in a Large Program
Considering Orders in a Large Program

Considering Orders in a Large Program

General principles of considering orders in a large and complex program are discussed.
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Creating a market making algorithm in MQL5

Creating a market making algorithm in MQL5

How do market makers work? Let's consider this issue and create a primitive market-making algorithm.
Object Approach in MQL
Object Approach in MQL

Object Approach in MQL

This article will be interesting first of all for programmers both beginners and professionals working in MQL environment. Also it would be useful if this article were read by MQL environment developers and ideologists, because questions that are analyzed here may become projects for future implementation of MetaTrader and MQL.
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Employing Game Theory Approaches in Trading Algorithms

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.