Tickstory Lite (Free version)
This guide explains how to achieve 99.9% modeling quality in MetaTrader 4 (MT4) using Tickstory Lite only. Tickstory handles the entire process — downloading high-quality tick data, generating MT4 history files, and launching the platform correctly for accurate backtesting.
Prerequisites
- MetaTrader 4: Installed on your computer.
- Tickstory Lite: Installed and set up.
- Internet Connection: Required to download historical tick data.
Overview
In this method, Tickstory is used as a complete solution. It downloads tick data, prepares the necessary MT4 files, and ensures the Strategy Tester uses that data correctly. No additional tools or scripts are required.
Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Install and Link Tickstory to MT4
- Install Tickstory Lite and open it.
- When prompted, link Tickstory to your MT4 installation.
- Verify that Tickstory detects the correct MT4 terminal directory.
Step 2: Download Tick Data
- Select the currency pair you want to backtest.
- Choose the date range.
- Click the Download button.
- Wait for the data to finish downloading.
Step 3: Export Data for MT4
- Right-click the downloaded symbol.
- Select Export.
- Choose MetaTrader 4 as the export format.
- Configure export settings
- Start the export and wait for completion.
Step 4: Launch MT4 from Tickstory
- Click Launch MT4 inside Tickstory.
- This ensures MT4 loads the exported tick data correctly.
- Avoid launching MT4 manually when backtesting.
Step 5: Run the Backtest
- Open
View → Strategy Tester. - Select your Expert Advisor.
- Select the symbol and timeframe used during export.
- Set the model to Every Tick.
- Choose the matching date range.
- Click Start.
Step 6: Confirm Modeling Quality
- Open the test report once the test completes.
- Confirm the modeling quality shows 99.9%.
- Ensure no errors or data mismatches are reported.
Best Practices
- Always launch MT4 from Tickstory for backtesting.
- Re-export data if you change spreads or timeframes.
- Use realistic spreads to reflect live trading conditions.
- Keep each MT4 installation dedicated to one data setup.
This approach offers a simple and reliable way to perform high-quality MT4 backtests with minimal setup and consistent results.