The strategy optimizer will start with the initial test parameters of EA of 16 and 32. After the first test is over, it will save the test results and will increase the initial value of the first moving average by the step size, i.e. 16 + 10 = 26. Thus, the second test will occur with values of 26 and 32. In the third test, the period of one moving average has reached its maximum value of 36 and that is why the period of one of the indicator in the fourth test will change back to the original value of 16, whereas the period of the second moving average will be altered from 32 to 42. All nine tests are shown in the table:
The period of the 1st Moving average | The period of the 2nd Moving average | |
Test #1 | 16 | 32 |
Test #2 | 26 | 32 |
Test #3 | 36 | 32 |
Test #4 | 16 | 42 |
Test #5 | 26 | 42 |
Test #6 | 36 | 42 |
Test #7 | 16 | 52 |
Test #8 | 26 | 52 |
Test #9 | 36 | 52 |
After the first test is completed, one should analyze the results. To do this, navigate to the "File → Export results to MS Excel".
It is important to understand that the results will vary depending on which pair you are testing, what time frame and what data sample you are using. To obtain reliable results, we recommend run the test on at least 10 years of data.
Instructions on how to download 20 years of historical data for free, is available on this page: http://www.forextester.com/DataCenter