----- Original Message -----
Sent: Sunday, March 13, 2005 6:56
PM
Subject: Re: [Metastockusers] What to
Look for in a System Test
Scott,
the guys in the forum are trying to help you,but
you'll find out sooner or later that things are very different in the real
world than they are in your simulation programs or the tester.
Do you want my advice? don't use the system
tester! it is far away from reality.For 2 main reasons:
a. The tester assumes that you took all the
trades.That's impossible.Either because you weren't available the day the
signal was triggered,or because you had already put all your money in another
trade.
b.The tester also assumed that you've followed
the same trade management in every trade.That's unrealistic.Each trade is
treated differently.Examining the results in hindsight won't be helpful for
you when you'll put your money on the table.
It's better to test your strategy bar by
bar,without seeing the next days.Even better,you can paper trade in real
time,testing also your ability to react quickly.You will perform much fewer
tests in this way,but they'll have real value for you.I know it's a time
consuming process,but it will benefit you a lot.And remember,your trade
management strategy is much more important than your entry method.When you
enter a trade,your money is at risk.Work to reduce your risk as soon as
possible.This is the only survival method that works.Don't be fooled
by the carefully selected examples the system vendors will present
you.IF you do what the 99% does,you will never have the chance to approach the
1% that consistently makes money in the markets.It takes time,effort,money and
huge emotional resources.Remember,the road to success cannot be purchased.It
must be gained by YOU!!!
----- Original Message -----
Sent: Monday, March 14, 2005 1:13
AM
Subject: Re: [Metastockusers] What to
Look for in a System Test
Martin,
The different trades are all over the map. From
7 trades with a w/l of 4/5 for a gain of 39% to 8 trades with a w/l of
1/7 for a loss of 91%.
I am using 8.0 and do not have an overall
summary for all stocks in my list.
Scott
----- Original Message -----
Sent: Sunday, March 13, 2005 4:01
PM
Subject: Re: [Metastockusers] What to
Look for in a System Test
Scott
Does the entry and exit percentage gain or
loss of one particular trade match the page with the graph on
it?
Click to Highlight and "view"
Examine the entry and exit price
The formula to calculate a gain is -
entry minus exit. Divide this number by lowest number.e.g..
8-10=-2/8= .25 or 25%
Now compare this to what MS system tester
says on summary page. I assume you are using 9.
Martin Blain
Burlington Ontario