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8nite

MCP MetaTrader 4 Server

by 8nite

run_backtest

Test trading strategies by simulating Expert Advisor performance on historical data with configurable parameters, timeframes, and optimization settings.

Instructions

Run a backtest on an Expert Advisor

Input Schema

TableJSON Schema
NameRequiredDescriptionDefault
expertYesExpert Advisor name (without .ex4 extension)
symbolYesTrading symbol (e.g., EURUSD, GBPUSD)
timeframeYesTimeframe for backtesting
from_dateYesStart date (YYYY-MM-DD format)
to_dateYesEnd date (YYYY-MM-DD format)
initial_depositNoInitial deposit amount
modelNoTesting modelEvery tick
optimizationNoEnable optimization
parametersNoExpert Advisor parameters as key-value pairs
Behavior2/5

Does the description disclose side effects, auth requirements, rate limits, or destructive behavior?

With no annotations provided, the description carries the full burden of behavioral disclosure. It states the action ('Run a backtest') but doesn't explain what happens during execution—such as whether it's synchronous/asynchronous, how long it might take, error handling, or what output to expect. This is a significant gap for a complex operation with 9 parameters.

Agents need to know what a tool does to the world before calling it. Descriptions should go beyond structured annotations to explain consequences.

Conciseness5/5

Is the description appropriately sized, front-loaded, and free of redundancy?

The description is a single, efficient sentence that directly states the tool's purpose without unnecessary words. It's appropriately sized and front-loaded, making it easy to understand at a glance.

Shorter descriptions cost fewer tokens and are easier for agents to parse. Every sentence should earn its place.

Completeness2/5

Given the tool's complexity, does the description cover enough for an agent to succeed on first attempt?

For a complex tool with 9 parameters, no annotations, and no output schema, the description is inadequate. It doesn't explain the backtesting process, result format, error conditions, or how it relates to sibling tools. More context is needed to help an agent use this tool effectively.

Complex tools with many parameters or behaviors need more documentation. Simple tools need less. This dimension scales expectations accordingly.

Parameters3/5

Does the description clarify parameter syntax, constraints, interactions, or defaults beyond what the schema provides?

Schema description coverage is 100%, so the schema already documents all parameters thoroughly. The description adds no additional parameter semantics beyond what's in the schema, such as explaining interactions between parameters or providing usage examples. Baseline 3 is appropriate when the schema does the heavy lifting.

Input schemas describe structure but not intent. Descriptions should explain non-obvious parameter relationships and valid value ranges.

Purpose4/5

Does the description clearly state what the tool does and how it differs from similar tools?

The description clearly states the verb 'Run' and the resource 'backtest on an Expert Advisor', providing a specific action. However, it doesn't differentiate from sibling tools like 'get_backtest_results' or 'get_backtest_status', which are related but distinct operations.

Agents choose between tools based on descriptions. A clear purpose with a specific verb and resource helps agents select the right tool.

Usage Guidelines2/5

Does the description explain when to use this tool, when not to, or what alternatives exist?

No guidance is provided on when to use this tool versus alternatives like 'get_backtest_results' or 'get_backtest_status'. The description lacks context about prerequisites, such as needing a compiled Expert Advisor or historical data availability.

Agents often have multiple tools that could apply. Explicit usage guidance like "use X instead of Y when Z" prevents misuse.

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