How to Use NO-Codes MQL4: A Step-by-Step Tutorial
Quick Introduction to NO-Codes MQL4
NO-Codes MQL4 is a beginner-friendly platform for creating trading robots without writing any code. You build your strategy visually by connecting blocks. It’s like building with LEGO bricks: simple, fun, and powerful. Just pick a block (for example, a condition or order) and place it in the workspace to define part of your trading logic.
The interface is very intuitive: find blocks, drag them into the workspace, and fill in their details. In a few clicks you assemble your entire strategy, and the system automatically converts it into working MQL4 code. You control your strategy with clicks and values, not lines of code!
Searching and Selecting Blocks
The left panel lists all available blocks. You can scroll through the categories or use the search box at the top to filter blocks by keyword (for example, typing 'RSI' shows RSI-related blocks). Each block shows its name and a short description. Right-click on a block to see more details. This helps you decide which block is right for your strategy.
- Use the search field to find blocks by name or function.
- Right-click on a block to see its details and example use.
- Click a block to read more and decide if you want to use it.
Voting for Block Relevance
To help everyone find the most useful blocks, you can right-click and rate each block on a 6‑star scale (where 1 star = 0/5, …, and 6 stars = 5/5). Blocks with higher average ratings will automatically rise to the top of the search results and category lists.
- Click the star corresponding to your rating (1 star = 0, 6 stars = 5 out of 5).
- Each block displays its current average rating and total number of ratings.
- Your ratings guide the community by highlighting the most relevant and high-quality blocks.
Drag and Drop Blocks to Create Your Trading Robot
Once you find a useful block, drag it from the left panel into the workspace (the drop zone on the right). Blocks will automatically snap into place, forming the flow of your strategy. You can always rearrange or replace blocks if needed. If you make a mistake, simply drag a block back out of the workspace – the system is flexible and easy!
- Drag a block from the left panel and drop it in the workspace to add it to your robot.
- Drag blocks up or down to change the order of your trading logic.
- Combine blocks together (parent and child blocks) to form complete rules (e.g., conditions with actions).
Remember: Start with one or two blocks and make sure you understand each step of the strategy. You can always add more blocks as you gain confidence.
Configuring Block Variables
Each block can have its own settings, called variables. After you add a block, click on it to open its configuration form (usually a small panel with input fields). There you set the values that control how the block behaves. For example, a “Buy” block might have fields for lot size, stop loss, or take profit. An indicator block like “RSI” may let you set the period or threshold. Enter numbers or select options as needed. If you hover over a field label, it may show tips or default values.
- Click on any block in the workspace to see its variable form.
- Fill in the fields with the values you want (for example, stop loss = 50 points).
- Every block has labels or placeholders to guide you – take a moment to read them.
Key point: These values directly change how your robot trades. Double-check that each number or option is correct for your plan. If you skip a field, the system may assume a default value, so it’s best to fill in what you need.
Compile the Project into an MQL4 File
When your blocks are arranged and configured, you’re ready to create the actual EA file. Click the Compile button (usually below the workspace). The platform will automatically translate your block structure into MQL4 source code and check for any missing settings. If there are errors or missing inputs in your blocks, the system will prompt you to fix them. Otherwise, the compile process will succeed and prepare your Expert Advisor for download.
- Click Compile to generate the trading robot code.
- If there are issues (like empty fields), follow the prompt to correct them.
- Once compiled successfully, you have a ready
.mq4
file for your EA.
Note: You are not writing the code yourself; the platform does the coding for you. The blocks you placed become actual trading commands in the final EA.
Download the Generated File
After a successful compile, the site will provide a download link or button. Click it to save the .mq4
file to your computer. Make sure you remember where you saved it! The filename usually matches your project name, but you can rename it (keeping the .mq4
extension) if you wish. This file is the source code for your Expert Advisor.
- Find the downloaded
.mq4
file in your Downloads folder (or the location you chose). - Keep the
.mq4
extension – this is required for MetaTrader 4. - Note the file name, as you’ll need it in the next step.
Install the EA in MetaTrader 4
Now you’ll set up the EA in the MetaTrader 4 platform so it can run on real data. Follow these steps:
- Open your MetaTrader 4 platform.
- Click File > Open Data Folder in the menu. A file explorer window will open.
- In the explorer, open the
MQL4
folder, then openExperts
. - Copy your downloaded
.mq4
file into theExperts
folder. - Close or restart MetaTrader 4. You can also open the Navigator (Ctrl+N), right-click on “Expert Advisors” and select “Refresh”.
Now your new EA should appear in the Navigator under “Expert Advisors.” To use it, open a chart for your chosen symbol, then either double-click the EA or drag it onto the chart. A settings window will pop up; you can usually click “OK” if you used default block settings. Finally, make sure the AutoTrading button is enabled (it should be green) so that the robot can place trades. Your EA is now installed and running!
Tip: If you ever update your.mq4
file (for example, after editing blocks), repeat these steps so MT4 knows about the new version. MetaTrader 4 will automatically compile the.mq4
into an.ex4
file when you restart or refresh.
Bonus: Add Your Own Custom Blocks
If you already know some MQL4 or want to try more advanced customization, NO-Codes MQL4 lets you create your own blocks. Go to the “Add New Block” page. There, you can define a new block by giving it a name, description, and writing the MQL4 code that it should generate. You can also specify input variables for the block (these become fields you fill in the form, just like default blocks). Once saved, your custom block will appear in the block list, just like the built-in ones!
- On the “Add New Block” page, give your block a meaningful name.
- Write the MQL4 code that will run when the block is used (for advanced users).
- Specify any input fields (variables) the block needs.
- Save the block, then you can drag it into your workspace like any other block.
Advanced feature: This lets you extend the platform with your own trading logic. If you don’t code in MQL4, it’s fine – just use the existing blocks. But if you enjoy coding, adding custom blocks can make the tool even more powerful for your personal strategies.
That’s it! You’re now ready to build, compile, and use your own trading robot with NO-Codes MQL4. Enjoy experimenting with blocks, and happy trading!
Any bugs? Report them to contact@cp-corporation.fr.