Summary: This tutorial covers exporting MT4 account history to CSV, generating equity curves for performance analysis, and using data tools to evaluate trading results.
Step 1: Open MT4 Account History Tab
Launch MT4 and press `Ctrl+T` to open Terminal. Click the "Account History" tab. Right-click inside the tab and select "All History" to display all closed trades.
*(Screenshot suggestion: Account History tab with right-click menu open)*
Step 2: Export History to CSV File
Right-click anywhere in the Account History list. Choose "Save as Report" or "Save as Detailed Report" (wording depends on MT4 version). Select a save location and name the `.htm` or `.csv` file. For CSV format, some brokers require using "Save as Report" then converting.
*(Screenshot suggestion: Save as Report option highlighted)*
Step 3: Generate Equity Curve from Exported Data
Open the saved file in Excel or Google Sheets. Delete columns except "Balance" and "Profit". Create a new column for cumulative balance: start with initial deposit, then add/subtract each trade's profit. Select the cumulative balance column and insert a line chart – this is your equity curve.
*(Screenshot suggestion: Excel chart showing equity curve line)*
Step 4: Using MT4 Built-in Report (Alternative)
Right-click Account History → "Save as Detailed Report" → choose `.htm` format. Open with any browser. The built-in report includes basic equity chart and performance metrics like Sharpe ratio, drawdown, and profit factor.
Step 5: Export Historical Backtesting Data
For backtesting results: Open Strategy Tester (`Ctrl+R`), run a test, then right-click the "Results" tab → "Save as Report". This exports detailed trade log and equity graph for optimization analysis.
Step 6: Third-Party Tools for Advanced Analysis
Tools like MyFxBook or FX Blue automatically sync MT4 data and generate professional equity curves, monthly breakdowns, and risk reports without manual Excel work.
Reference: MetaQuotes Help – Account History (2025). MQL5 Documentation – TesterReport Functions.