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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Price Action Analysis Toolkit Development (Part 21): Market Structure Flip Detector Tool

Price Action Analysis Toolkit Development (Part 21): Market Structure Flip Detector Tool

The Market Structure Flip Detector Expert Advisor (EA) acts as your vigilant partner, constantly observing shifts in market sentiment. By utilizing Average True Range (ATR)-based thresholds, it effectively detects structure flips and labels each Higher Low and Lower High with clear indicators. Thanks to MQL5’s swift execution and flexible API, this tool offers real-time analysis that adjusts the display for optimal readability and provides a live dashboard to monitor flip counts and timings. Furthermore, customizable sound and push notifications guarantee that you stay informed of critical signals, allowing you to see how straightforward inputs and helper routines can transform price movements into actionable strategies.
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Training a multilayer perceptron using the Levenberg-Marquardt algorithm

Training a multilayer perceptron using the Levenberg-Marquardt algorithm

The article presents an implementation of the Levenberg-Marquardt algorithm for training feedforward neural networks. A comparative analysis of performance with algorithms from the scikit-learn Python library has been conducted. Simpler learning methods, such as gradient descent, gradient descent with momentum, and stochastic gradient descent are preliminarily discussed.
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Data Science and ML (Part 40): Using Fibonacci Retracements in Machine Learning data

Data Science and ML (Part 40): Using Fibonacci Retracements in Machine Learning data

Fibonacci retracements are a popular tool in technical analysis, helping traders identify potential reversal zones. In this article, we’ll explore how these retracement levels can be transformed into target variables for machine learning models to help them understand the market better using this powerful tool.
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Building a Custom Market Regime Detection System in MQL5 (Part 2): Expert Advisor

Building a Custom Market Regime Detection System in MQL5 (Part 2): Expert Advisor

This article details building an adaptive Expert Advisor (MarketRegimeEA) using the regime detector from Part 1. It automatically switches trading strategies and risk parameters for trending, ranging, or volatile markets. Practical optimization, transition handling, and a multi-timeframe indicator are included.
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Volumetric neural network analysis as a key to future trends

Volumetric neural network analysis as a key to future trends

The article explores the possibility of improving price forecasting based on trading volume analysis by integrating technical analysis principles with LSTM neural network architecture. Particular attention is paid to the detection and interpretation of anomalous volumes, the use of clustering and the creation of features based on volumes and their definition in the context of machine learning.
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Trading with the MQL5 Economic Calendar (Part 6): Automating Trade Entry with News Event Analysis and Countdown Timers

Trading with the MQL5 Economic Calendar (Part 6): Automating Trade Entry with News Event Analysis and Countdown Timers

In this article, we implement automated trade entry using the MQL5 Economic Calendar by applying user-defined filters and time offsets to identify qualifying news events. We compare forecast and previous values to determine whether to open a BUY or SELL trade. Dynamic countdown timers display the remaining time until news release and reset automatically after a trade.
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From Python to MQL5: A Journey into Quantum-Inspired Trading Systems

From Python to MQL5: A Journey into Quantum-Inspired Trading Systems

The article explores the development of a quantum-inspired trading system, transitioning from a Python prototype to an MQL5 implementation for real-world trading. The system uses quantum computing principles like superposition and entanglement to analyze market states, though it runs on classical computers using quantum simulators. Key features include a three-qubit system for analyzing eight market states simultaneously, 24-hour lookback periods, and seven technical indicators for market analysis. While the accuracy rates might seem modest, they provide a significant edge when combined with proper risk management strategies.
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Developing a Replay System (Part 38): Paving the Path (II)

Developing a Replay System (Part 38): Paving the Path (II)

Many people who consider themselves MQL5 programmers do not have the basic knowledge that I will outline in this article. Many people consider MQL5 to be a limited tool, but the actual reason is that they do not have the required knowledge. So, if you don't know something, don't be ashamed of it. It's better to feel ashamed for not asking. Simply forcing MetaTrader 5 to disable indicator duplication in no way ensures two-way communication between the indicator and the Expert Advisor. We are still very far from this, but the fact that the indicator is not duplicated on the chart gives us some confidence.
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Introduction to MQL5 (Part 29): Mastering API and WebRequest Function in MQL5 (III)

Introduction to MQL5 (Part 29): Mastering API and WebRequest Function in MQL5 (III)

In this article, we continue mastering API and WebRequest in MQL5 by retrieving candlestick data from an external source. We focus on splitting the server response, cleaning the data, and extracting essential elements such as opening time and OHLC values for multiple daily candles, preparing the data for further analysis.
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Larry Williams Market Secrets (Part 11): Detecting Smash Day Reversals with a Custom Indicator

Larry Williams Market Secrets (Part 11): Detecting Smash Day Reversals with a Custom Indicator

We convert Larry Williams’ Smash Day reversal rules into a practical MQL5 indicator that flags confirmed setups with arrows. Step by step, the text shows buffer binding, plot properties, historical mapping, and real‑time updates inside OnCalculate. Adjustable lookback parameters and clean chart rendering help you detect valid reversals quickly while keeping final trade decisions discretionary and context‑driven.
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Building a Candlestick Trend Constraint Model (Part 8): Expert Advisor Development (I)

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.
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Graphics in DoEasy library (Part 99): Moving an extended graphical object using a single control point

Graphics in DoEasy library (Part 99): Moving an extended graphical object using a single control point

In the previous article, I implemented the ability to move pivot points of an extended graphical object using control forms. Now I am going to implement the ability to move a composite graphical object using a single graphical object control point (form).
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Neural networks made easy (Part 37): Sparse Attention

Neural networks made easy (Part 37): Sparse Attention

In the previous article, we discussed relational models which use attention mechanisms in their architecture. One of the specific features of these models is the intensive utilization of computing resources. In this article, we will consider one of the mechanisms for reducing the number of computational operations inside the Self-Attention block. This will increase the general performance of the model.
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Neural Networks in Trading: Enhancing Transformer Efficiency by Reducing Sharpness (SAMformer)

Neural Networks in Trading: Enhancing Transformer Efficiency by Reducing Sharpness (SAMformer)

Training Transformer models requires large amounts of data and is often difficult since the models are not good at generalizing to small datasets. The SAMformer framework helps solve this problem by avoiding poor local minima. This improves the efficiency of models even on limited training datasets.
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Design Patterns in software development and MQL5 (Part 3): Behavioral Patterns 1

Design Patterns in software development and MQL5 (Part 3): Behavioral Patterns 1

A new article from Design Patterns articles and we will take a look at one of its types which is behavioral patterns to understand how we can build communication methods between created objects effectively. By completing these Behavior patterns we will be able to understand how we can create and build a reusable, extendable, tested software.
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Creating Custom Indicators in MQL5 (Part 6): Evolving RSI Calculations with Smoothing, Hue Shifts, and Multi-Timeframe Support

Creating Custom Indicators in MQL5 (Part 6): Evolving RSI Calculations with Smoothing, Hue Shifts, and Multi-Timeframe Support

In this article, we build a versatile RSI indicator in MQL5 supporting multiple variants, data sources, and smoothing methods for improved analysis. We add hue shifts for color visuals, dynamic boundaries for overbought/oversold zones, and notifications for trend alerts. It includes multi-timeframe support with interpolation, offering us a customizable RSI tool for diverse strategies.
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Building a Candlestick Trend Constraint Model (Part 9): Multiple Strategies Expert Advisor (III)

Building a Candlestick Trend Constraint Model (Part 9): Multiple Strategies Expert Advisor (III)

Welcome to the third installment of our trend series! Today, we’ll delve into the use of divergence as a strategy for identifying optimal entry points within the prevailing daily trend. We’ll also introduce a custom profit-locking mechanism, similar to a trailing stop-loss, but with unique enhancements. In addition, we’ll upgrade the Trend Constraint Expert to a more advanced version, incorporating a new trade execution condition to complement the existing ones. As we move forward, we’ll continue to explore the practical application of MQL5 in algorithmic development, providing you with more in-depth insights and actionable techniques.
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Color buffers in multi-symbol multi-period indicators

Color buffers in multi-symbol multi-period indicators

In this article, we will review the structure of the indicator buffer in multi-symbol, multi-period indicators and organize the display of colored buffers of these indicators on the chart.
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DoEasy. Controls (Part 20): SplitContainer WinForms object

DoEasy. Controls (Part 20): SplitContainer WinForms object

In the current article, I will start developing the SplitContainer control from the MS Visual Studio toolkit. This control consists of two panels separated by a vertical or horizontal movable separator.
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Price Action Analysis Toolkit Development (Part 56): Reading Session Acceptance and Rejection with CPI

Price Action Analysis Toolkit Development (Part 56): Reading Session Acceptance and Rejection with CPI

This article presents a session-based analytical framework that combines time-defined market sessions with the Candle Pressure Index (CPI) to classify acceptance and rejection behavior at session boundaries using closed-candle data and clearly defined rules.
Interview with Matúš German (ATC 2012)
Interview with Matúš German (ATC 2012)

Interview with Matúš German (ATC 2012)

It's the second time Matúš German participates in the Automated Trading Championship. By the end of the fourth week of ATC 2012 his Expert Advisor has been holding its positions in the TOP-10 having about $30 000. Matúš is from Slovakia, from the little town Bardejov. Matúš is interested in trading for about 5 years and he develops Expert Advisors for 3 years already.
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Portfolio Optimization in Python and MQL5

Portfolio Optimization in Python and MQL5

This article explores advanced portfolio optimization techniques using Python and MQL5 with MetaTrader 5. It demonstrates how to develop algorithms for data analysis, asset allocation, and trading signal generation, emphasizing the importance of data-driven decision-making in modern financial management and risk mitigation.
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Frequency domain representations of time series: The Power Spectrum

Frequency domain representations of time series: The Power Spectrum

In this article we discuss methods related to the analysis of timeseries in the frequency domain. Emphasizing the utility of examining the power spectra of time series when building predictive models. In this article we will discuss some of the useful perspectives to be gained by analyzing time series in the frequency domain using the discrete fourier transform (dft).
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Cyclic Parthenogenesis Algorithm (CPA)

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.
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Population optimization algorithms: Invasive Weed Optimization (IWO)

Population optimization algorithms: Invasive Weed Optimization (IWO)

The amazing ability of weeds to survive in a wide variety of conditions has become the idea for a powerful optimization algorithm. IWO is one of the best algorithms among the previously reviewed ones.
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Reimagining Classic Strategies (Part 16): Double Bollinger Band Breakouts

Reimagining Classic Strategies (Part 16): Double Bollinger Band Breakouts

This article walks the reader through a reimagined version of the classical Bollinger Band breakout strategy. It identifies key weaknesses in the original approach, such as its well-known susceptibility to false breakouts. The article aims to introduce a possible solution: the Double Bollinger Band trading strategy. This relatively lesser known approach supplements the weaknesses of the classical version and offers a more dynamic perspective on financial markets. It helps us overcome the old limitations defined by the original rules, providing traders with a stronger and more adaptive framework.
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Neural Networks in Trading: A Parameter-Efficient Transformer with Segmented Attention (PSformer)

Neural Networks in Trading: A Parameter-Efficient Transformer with Segmented Attention (PSformer)

This article introduces the new PSformer framework, which adapts the architecture of the vanilla Transformer to solving problems related to multivariate time series forecasting. The framework is based on two key innovations: the Parameter Sharing (PS) mechanism and the Segment Attention (SegAtt).
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Developing a Replay System — Market simulation (Part 04): adjusting the settings (II)

Developing a Replay System — Market simulation (Part 04): adjusting the settings (II)

Let's continue creating the system and controls. Without the ability to control the service, it is difficult to move forward and improve the system.
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Neural networks made easy (Part 18): Association rules

Neural networks made easy (Part 18): Association rules

As a continuation of this series of articles, let's consider another type of problems within unsupervised learning methods: mining association rules. This problem type was first used in retail, namely supermarkets, to analyze market baskets. In this article, we will talk about the applicability of such algorithms in trading.
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Building AI-Powered Trading Systems in MQL5 (Part 3): Upgrading to a Scrollable Single Chat-Oriented UI

Building AI-Powered Trading Systems in MQL5 (Part 3): Upgrading to a Scrollable Single Chat-Oriented UI

In this article, we upgrade the ChatGPT-integrated program in MQL5 to a scrollable single chat-oriented UI, enhancing conversation history display with timestamps and dynamic scrolling. The system builds on JSON parsing to manage multi-turn messages, supporting customizable scrollbar modes and hover effects for improved user interaction.
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Building AI-Powered Trading Systems in MQL5 (Part 4): Overcoming Multiline Input, Ensuring Chat Persistence, and Generating Signals

Building AI-Powered Trading Systems in MQL5 (Part 4): Overcoming Multiline Input, Ensuring Chat Persistence, and Generating Signals

In this article, we enhance the ChatGPT-integrated program in MQL5 overcoming multiline input limitations with improved text rendering, introducing a sidebar for navigating persistent chat storage using AES256 encryption and ZIP compression, and generating initial trade signals through chart data integration.
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Neural networks made easy (Part 56): Using nuclear norm to drive research

Neural networks made easy (Part 56): Using nuclear norm to drive research

The study of the environment in reinforcement learning is a pressing problem. We have already looked at some approaches previously. In this article, we will have a look at yet another method based on maximizing the nuclear norm. It allows agents to identify environmental states with a high degree of novelty and diversity.
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Developing A Custom Account Performance Matrix Indicator

Developing A Custom Account Performance 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.
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ALGLIB library optimization methods (Part II)

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.
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Building A Candlestick Trend Constraint Model (Part 9): Multiple Strategies Expert Advisor (I)

Building A Candlestick Trend Constraint Model (Part 9): Multiple Strategies Expert Advisor (I)

Today, we will explore the possibilities of incorporating multiple strategies into an Expert Advisor (EA) using MQL5. Expert Advisors provide broader capabilities than just indicators and scripts, allowing for more sophisticated trading approaches that can adapt to changing market conditions. Find, more in this article discussion.
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Formulating Dynamic Multi-Pair EA (Part 1): Currency Correlation and Inverse Correlation

Formulating Dynamic Multi-Pair EA (Part 1): Currency Correlation and Inverse Correlation

Dynamic multi pair Expert Advisor leverages both on correlation and inverse correlation strategies to optimize trading performance. By analyzing real-time market data, it identifies and exploits the relationship between currency pairs.
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Neural networks made easy (Part 54): Using random encoder for efficient research (RE3)

Neural networks made easy (Part 54): Using random encoder for efficient research (RE3)

Whenever we consider reinforcement learning methods, we are faced with the issue of efficiently exploring the environment. Solving this issue often leads to complication of the algorithm and training of additional models. In this article, we will look at an alternative approach to solving this problem.
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Bill Williams Strategy with and without other indicators and predictions

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.
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Data label for time series mining (Part 3):Example for using label data

Data label for time series mining (Part 3):Example for using label data

This series of articles introduces several time series labeling methods, which can create data that meets most artificial intelligence models, and targeted data labeling according to needs can make the trained artificial intelligence model more in line with the expected design, improve the accuracy of our model, and even help the model make a qualitative leap!
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The Parafrac V2 Oscillator: Integrating Parabolic SAR with Average True Range

The Parafrac V2 Oscillator: Integrating Parabolic SAR with Average True Range

The Parafrac V2 Oscillator is an advanced technical analysis tool that integrates the Parabolic SAR with the Average True Range (ATR) to overcome limitations of its predecessor, which relied on fractals and was prone to signal spikes overshadowing previous and current signals. By leveraging ATR’s volatility measure, the version 2 offers a smoother, more reliable method for detecting trends, reversals, and divergences, helping traders reduce chart congestion and analysis paralysis.