Summary: Step-by-step guide to installing and applying templates in MT4 and MT5. Covers the templates folder location, .tpl file placement, and applying templates to charts.
Step 1: Download or Locate Your Template File
Templates have a `.tpl` extension. Download the template from a trusted source or locate an existing `.tpl` file on your computer. Do not rename the file. Screenshot: a .tpl file in Windows File Explorer.
Step 2: Open MT4/MT5 and Go to Templates Folder
Open your platform. Click “File” → “Open Data Folder” (or “Open Data Folder” directly in MT5). A new window opens. Navigate to `MQL4` (or `MQL5`) → `Profiles` → `Templates`. Screenshot: Data Folder path highlighting the Templates folder.
Step 3: Copy the .tpl File
Drag and drop (or copy-paste) your `.tpl` template file into this `Templates` folder. Do not put it in any subfolder. Screenshot: copying .tpl file into Templates folder.
Step 4: Restart or Refresh the Platform
Close and reopen MT4/MT5. Alternatively, right-click on any chart → “Template” → “Load Template” to refresh the list without restarting. Screenshot: right-click menu showing Load Template option.
Step 5: Apply the Template to a Chart
Right-click on any chart → “Template” → “Load Template”. Select your template from the list and click “Open”. The chart will instantly change its colors, indicators, and layout. Screenshot: template selection window with available .tpl files.
Step 6: Set as Default Template (Optional)
To apply this template to all new charts, right-click a chart → “Template” → “Save Template”. Overwrite the “Default.tpl” file. Screenshot: Save Template dialog box.
Reference: MetaQuotes Help Desk - Working with Chart Templates.