ALGLIB library optimization methods (Part II)
In this article, we will continue to study the remaining optimization methods from the ALGLIB library, paying special attention to their testing on complex multidimensional functions. This will allow us not only to evaluate the efficiency of each algorithm, but also to identify their strengths and weaknesses in different conditions.
Manual Backtesting Made Easy: Building a Custom Toolkit for Strategy Tester in MQL5
In this article, we design a custom MQL5 toolkit for easy manual backtesting in the Strategy Tester. We explain its design and implementation, focusing on interactive trade controls. We then show how to use it to test strategies effectively
Population optimization algorithms: Shuffled Frog-Leaping algorithm (SFL)
The article presents a detailed description of the shuffled frog-leaping (SFL) algorithm and its capabilities in solving optimization problems. The SFL algorithm is inspired by the behavior of frogs in their natural environment and offers a new approach to function optimization. The SFL algorithm is an efficient and flexible tool capable of processing a variety of data types and achieving optimal solutions.
Population optimization algorithms: ElectroMagnetism-like algorithm (ЕМ)
The article describes the principles, methods and possibilities of using the Electromagnetic Algorithm in various optimization problems. The EM algorithm is an efficient optimization tool capable of working with large amounts of data and multidimensional functions.
Building a Candlestick Trend Constraint Model (Part 8): Expert Advisor Development (I)
In this discussion, we will create our first Expert Advisor in MQL5 based on the indicator we made in the prior article. We will cover all the features required to make the process automatic, including risk management. This will extensively benefit the users to advance from manual execution of trades to automated systems.
Developing a Custom Market Sentiment Indicator
In this article we are developing a custom market sentiment indicator to classify conditions into bullish, bearish, risk-on, risk-off, or neutral. Using multi-timeframe, the indicator can provide traders with a clearer perspective of overall market bias and short-term confirmations.
Population optimization algorithms: Monkey algorithm (MA)
In this article, I will consider the Monkey Algorithm (MA) optimization algorithm. The ability of these animals to overcome difficult obstacles and get to the most inaccessible tree tops formed the basis of the idea of the MA algorithm.
Cyclic Parthenogenesis Algorithm (CPA)
The article considers a new population optimization algorithm - Cyclic Parthenogenesis Algorithm (CPA), inspired by the unique reproductive strategy of aphids. The algorithm combines two reproduction mechanisms — parthenogenesis and sexual reproduction — and also utilizes the colonial structure of the population with the possibility of migration between colonies. The key features of the algorithm are adaptive switching between different reproductive strategies and a system of information exchange between colonies through the flight mechanism.
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.
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.
From Novice to Expert: Programming Candlesticks
In this article, we take the first step in MQL5 programming, even for complete beginners. We'll show you how to transform familiar candlestick patterns into a fully functional custom indicator. Candlestick patterns are valuable as they reflect real price action and signal market shifts. Instead of manually scanning charts—an approach prone to errors and inefficiencies—we'll discuss how to automate the process with an indicator that identifies and labels patterns for you. Along the way, we’ll explore key concepts like indexing, time series, Average True Range (for accuracy in varying market volatility), and the development of a custom reusable Candlestick Pattern library for use in future projects.
Developing a multi-currency Expert Advisor (Part 22): Starting the transition to hot swapping of settings
If we are going to automate periodic optimization, we need to think about auto updates of the settings of the EAs already running on the trading account. This should also allow us to run the EA in the strategy tester and change its settings within a single run.
Multilayer perceptron and backpropagation algorithm (Part 3): Integration with the Strategy Tester - Overview (I).
The multilayer perceptron is an evolution of the simple perceptron which can solve non-linear separable problems. Together with the backpropagation algorithm, this neural network can be effectively trained. In Part 3 of the Multilayer Perceptron and Backpropagation series, we'll see how to integrate this technique into the Strategy Tester. This integration will allow the use of complex data analysis aimed at making better decisions to optimize your trading strategies. In this article, we will discuss the advantages and problems of this technique.
Bill Williams Strategy with and without other indicators and predictions
In this article, we will take a look to one the famous strategies of Bill Williams, and discuss it, and try to improve the strategy with other indicators and with predictions.
Category Theory in MQL5 (Part 15) : Functors with Graphs
This article on Category Theory implementation in MQL5, continues the series by looking at Functors but this time as a bridge between Graphs and a set. We revisit calendar data, and despite its limitations in Strategy Tester use, make the case using functors in forecasting volatility with the help of correlation.
Developing a Replay System — Market simulation (Part 05): Adding Previews
We have managed to develop a way to implement the market replay system in a realistic and accessible way. Now let's continue our project and add data to improve the replay behavior.
Developing a robot in Python and MQL5 (Part 2): Model selection, creation and training, Python custom tester
We continue the series of articles on developing a trading robot in Python and MQL5. Today we will solve the problem of selecting and training a model, testing it, implementing cross-validation, grid search, as well as the problem of model ensemble.
Developing a multi-currency Expert Advisor (Part 13): Automating the second stage — selection into groups
We have already implemented the first stage of the automated optimization. We perform optimization for different symbols and timeframes according to several criteria and store information about the results of each pass in the database. Now we are going to select the best groups of parameter sets from those found at the first stage.
Testing Visualization: Account State Charts
Enjoy the process of testing with charts, displaying the balance - now all the necessary information is always in view!
Developing A Custom Account Performace Matrix Indicator
This indicator acts as a discipline enforcer by tracking account equity, profit/loss, and drawdown in real-time while displaying a performance dashboard. It can help traders stay consistent, avoid overtrading, and comply with prop-firm challenge rules.
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.
Circle Search Algorithm (CSA)
The article presents a new metaheuristic optimization Circle Search Algorithm (CSA) based on the geometric properties of a circle. The algorithm uses the principle of moving points along tangents to find the optimal solution, combining the phases of global exploration and local exploitation.
Population optimization algorithms: Artificial Bee Colony (ABC)
In this article, we will study the algorithm of an artificial bee colony and supplement our knowledge with new principles of studying functional spaces. In this article, I will showcase my interpretation of the classic version of the algorithm.
Fast trading strategy tester in Python using Numba
The article implements a fast strategy tester for machine learning models using Numba. It is 50 times faster than the pure Python strategy tester. The author recommends using this library to speed up mathematical calculations, especially the ones involving loops.
Population optimization algorithms: Stochastic Diffusion Search (SDS)
The article discusses Stochastic Diffusion Search (SDS), which is a very powerful and efficient optimization algorithm based on the principles of random walk. The algorithm allows finding optimal solutions in complex multidimensional spaces, while featuring a high speed of convergence and the ability to avoid local extrema.
Developing a Trading System Based on the Order Book (Part I): Indicator
Depth of Market is undoubtedly a very important element for executing fast trades, especially in High Frequency Trading (HFT) algorithms. In this series of articles, we will look at this type of trading events that can be obtained through a broker on many tradable symbols. We will start with an indicator, where you can customize the color palette, position and size of the histogram displayed directly on the chart. We will also look at how to generate BookEvent events to test the indicator under certain conditions. Other possible topics for future articles include how to store price distribution data and how to use it in a strategy tester.
Developing a multi-currency Expert Advisor (Part 19): Creating stages implemented in Python
So far we have considered the automation of launching sequential procedures for optimizing EAs exclusively in the standard strategy tester. But what if we would like to perform some handling of the obtained data using other means between such launches? We will attempt to add the ability to create new optimization stages performed by programs written in Python.
MQL5 Wizard Techniques you should know (Part 44): Average True Range (ATR) technical indicator
The ATR oscillator is a very popular indicator for acting as a volatility proxy, especially in the forex markets where volume data is scarce. We examine this, on a pattern basis as we have with prior indicators, and share strategies & test reports thanks to the MQL5 wizard library classes and assembly.
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.
MQL5 Wizard Techniques you should know (Part 73): Using Patterns of Ichimoku and the ADX-Wilder
The Ichimoku-Kinko-Hyo Indicator and the ADX-Wilder oscillator are a pairing that could be used in complimentarily within an MQL5 Expert Advisor. The Ichimoku is multi-faceted, however for this article, we are relying on it primarily for its ability to define support and resistance levels. Meanwhile, we also use the ADX to define our trend. As usual, we use the MQL5 wizard to build and test any potential these two may possess.
Building A Candlestick Trend Constraint Model (Part 8): Expert Advisor Development (II)
Think about an independent Expert Advisor. Previously, we discussed an indicator-based Expert Advisor that also partnered with an independent script for drawing risk and reward geometry. Today, we will discuss the architecture of an MQL5 Expert Advisor, that integrates, all the features in one program.
Population optimization algorithms: Saplings Sowing and Growing up (SSG)
Saplings Sowing and Growing up (SSG) algorithm is inspired by one of the most resilient organisms on the planet demonstrating outstanding capability for survival in a wide variety of conditions.
William Gann methods (Part III): Does Astrology Work?
Do the positions of planets and stars affect financial markets? Let's arm ourselves with statistics and big data, and embark on an exciting journey into the world where stars and stock charts intersect.
Developing a Replay System (Part 27): Expert Advisor project — C_Mouse class (I)
In this article we will implement the C_Mouse class. It provides the ability to program at the highest level. However, talking about high-level or low-level programming languages is not about including obscene words or jargon in the code. It's the other way around. When we talk about high-level or low-level programming, we mean how easy or difficult the code is for other programmers to understand.
Raw Code Optimization and Tweaking for Improving Back-Test Results
Enhance your MQL5 code by optimizing logic, refining calculations, and reducing execution time to improve back-test accuracy. Fine-tune parameters, optimize loops, and eliminate inefficiencies for better performance.
Population optimization algorithms: Nelder–Mead, or simplex search (NM) method
The article presents a complete exploration of the Nelder-Mead method, explaining how the simplex (function parameter space) is modified and rearranged at each iteration to achieve an optimal solution, and describes how the method can be improved.
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.
Category Theory in MQL5 (Part 18): Naturality Square
This article continues our series into category theory by introducing natural transformations, a key pillar within the subject. We look at the seemingly complex definition, then delve into examples and applications with this series’ ‘bread and butter’; volatility forecasting.
Atomic Orbital Search (AOS) algorithm: Modification
In the second part of the article, we will continue developing a modified version of the AOS (Atomic Orbital Search) algorithm focusing on specific operators to improve its efficiency and adaptability. After analyzing the fundamentals and mechanics of the algorithm, we will discuss ideas for improving its performance and the ability to analyze complex solution spaces, proposing new approaches to extend its functionality as an optimization tool.
Developing a Replay System (Part 59): A New Future
Having a proper understanding of different ideas allows us to do more with less effort. In this article, we'll look at why it's necessary to configure a template before the service can interact with the chart. Also, what if we improve the mouse pointer so we can do more things with it?