Overview
This prompt guides analysis of a specific MQL5 trading algorithm to ensure safe and logical operation. Programmers and traders will benefit from clear, correct modifications and explanations of the code.
Prompt Overview
Purpose: To implement a simple trend-following trading strategy using moving average crossovers.
Audience: Traders and developers familiar with MQL5 and automated trading systems.
Distinctive Feature: Integrates multiple risk management controls like break-even and trailing stops.
Outcome: An automated Expert Advisor that executes trades based on defined technical signals.
Quick Specs
- Media: Text
- Use case: Generation
- Industry: Stock Brokerage & Trading, General Business Operations
- Techniques: Decomposition, Structured Output, Role/Persona Prompting
- Models: GPT-4, Claude 3 Opus, Llama 4 Maverick
- Estimated time: 5-10 minutes
- Skill level: Beginner
Variables to Fill
No inputs required — just copy and use the prompt.
Example Variables Block
No example values needed for this prompt.
The Prompt
You are to analyze and work with an MQL5 Expert Advisor (EA) source code file named `Simple_Trend_Following_EA.mq5`. This EA implements a simple trend-following trading strategy based on moving average crossovers and includes multiple risk management and trade control features. Your task is to ensure clarity, correctness, and completeness when reasoning about or modifying this code.
Key points to consider:
– Understand the trading logic: The EA uses fast and slow moving averages on a chosen timeframe to determine buy and sell signals.
– Review input parameters influencing indicator settings, risk management (risk percent, stop loss, break-even threshold, trailing stop), and filters (volume, ATR volatility, slippage).
– Correctly handle order placement, including lot size calculation relative to account balance, stop loss and take profit calculations, and broker requirements (minimum stop levels, lot steps).
– Manage existing positions by implementing break-even and trailing stop adjustments based on current unrealized profits.
– Include robust error checking: data availability for indicators, symbol and timeframe validity, and proper management of trade operations.
– Respect warnings about extreme risk due to low capital on a standard account.
When asked to explain, fix, or extend any parts of this EA, reason step by step about inputs, calculations, control flow, and trade API usage to ensure safe and consistent behavior.
# Steps
1. Parse the code and comprehend each function’s role (initialization, tick processing, order opening, position management, lot size calculation).
2. Identify dependencies and guards against invalid inputs or trading conditions.
3. Analyze risk management integration with trade execution (stop loss, take profit, lot sizing).
4. Summarize logic flow for entering new positions and managing existing ones.
5. When modifying, ensure all calculations respect broker and account constraints and provide clear logging.
6. When generating explanations or instructions, include rationale for thresholds and warnings.
# Output Format
Provide detailed explanations, code snippets, or suggestions in markdown formatting. Include clear reasoning before final conclusions or recommendations. Use code blocks for source code. Do not modify the code unless specifically requested; if modifying, produce clean, commented diffs or replacements. Maintain the original structure and logic unless corrections are required.
Screenshot Examples
[Insert relevant screenshots after testing]
How to Use This Prompt
- Copy the prompt into your working document or tool.
- Parse the MQL5 code to understand each function’s purpose.
- Identify dependencies and invalid input guards in the code.
- Analyze risk management integration with trade execution.
- Summarize logic flow for entering and managing positions.
- Provide explanations or suggestions in markdown format.
Tips for Best Results
- Understand Trading Logic: Focus on how moving average crossovers generate buy/sell signals and ensure the logic aligns with the intended trend-following strategy.
- Review Input Parameters: Ensure all input parameters like risk percent, stop loss, and slippage are correctly set and documented for effective risk management.
- Handle Order Placement: Verify that lot size calculations and order placements adhere to broker requirements, including minimum stop levels and lot steps.
- Implement Error Checking: Incorporate robust checks for data availability, symbol validity, and trade operation management to prevent execution errors.
FAQ
- What is the main strategy of the EA?
The EA uses moving average crossovers to determine buy and sell signals. - How does the EA manage risk?
It uses risk percent, stop loss, break-even, and trailing stop features. - What should be checked before placing orders?
Ensure data availability, symbol validity, and compliance with broker requirements. - What is crucial for modifying the EA?
Respect broker constraints, ensure clear logging, and maintain original logic.
Compliance and Best Practices
- Best Practice: Review AI output for accuracy and relevance before use.
- Privacy: Avoid sharing personal, financial, or confidential data in prompts.
- Platform Policy: Your use of AI tools must comply with their terms and your local laws.
Revision History
- Version 1.0 (March 2026): Initial release.
