How to read charts on MT4 or MT5

Follow the steps below to open and read price charts on MetaTrader 4 or MetaTrader 5, including chart types, timeframes, candlestick reading, and trend identification.

1. Open your MT4 or MT5 platform

Open your MT4 or MT5 platform.

2. Open a chart window

In the Market Watch window, right-click a symbol and select “Chart Window”.

3. Choose your chart type

Choose your preferred chart type:

• Candlestick – most popular
• Bar chart
• Line chart

4. Select a timeframe

Select a timeframe based on your trading style:

• M1–M15 – short-term
• H1–H4 – medium-term
• D1+ – long-term

5. Understand candlesticks

Learn how to read candlestick colours and structure:

• Green/Blue candle = price went up
• Red candle = price went down
• The body shows open and close prices
• The wicks (shadows) show highs and lows

6. Identify the trend

Use price action to identify the current market trend:

• Uptrend → higher highs & higher lows
• Downtrend → lower highs & lower lows
• Sideways → price moves in a range

7. Use indicators and drawing tools

Enhance your chart analysis with indicators and tools:

• Add indicators via Insert → Indicators (e.g. Moving Average, RSI)
• Use drawing tools such as trendlines and support/resistance levels

8. Zoom in/out and scroll

Zoom in/out and scroll to analyse price movements more clearly.