Summary: This tutorial explains how to export full account history from MT4, generate equity curve data, and save trade reports for performance analysis using built-in tools.
Step 1: Open Account History in MT4 Terminal
Launch MT4 and press `Ctrl+T` to open the Terminal window. Click the “Account History” tab. Right-click inside the tab area and select “All History” to display every closed trade, deposit, and withdrawal.
*(Screenshot suggestion: Account History tab with “All History” option highlighted)*
Step 2: Export as Detailed Report (HTML Format)
Right-click again inside the Account History area. Choose “Save as Detailed Report”. Select a save location (e.g., desktop) and name the file. MT4 generates an `.html` file containing all trades with timestamps, prices, profit, swap, and commission.
*(Screenshot suggestion: “Save as Detailed Report” menu option)*
Step 3: Export to CSV for Equity Curve or External Tools
MT4 does not natively export CSV. Use this workaround: Open the saved `.html` file in Excel or Google Sheets. Select all table data, copy, and paste into a new spreadsheet. Then save as `.csv`. Alternatively, use a free script from MQL5 Community: copy the “Export to CSV” EA to `MQL4/Experts`, attach to a chart, and run once. It generates a `.csv` file in the data folder.
*(Screenshot suggestion: CSV file opened in Excel showing equity column)*
Step 4: Build Equity Curve Data Manually
In your spreadsheet, add a column “Balance” or “Equity”. Start from initial deposit. For each trade row, calculate: new balance = previous balance + profit (including swap/commission). Sort by close time ascending. Plot a line chart with close time on X-axis and cumulative balance on Y-axis. This is your equity curve.
*(Screenshot suggestion: Excel chart showing equity curve line)*
Step 5: Use MT4 Built-in Report Viewer (Alternative)
Right-click Account History → “Save as Report” (not Detailed). This creates a shorter summary. For advanced analysis, go to “View” → “Strategy Tester” → select “Report” tab after backtesting. MT4 generates professional-grade equity graphs and drawdown metrics automatically.
Reference: MetaQuotes Help Desk – Account History (2025). MQL5 Community Scripts – CSV Export Utility (2024).