Distance from Point to Line
Info
The Distance from Point to Line is a Script for MetaTrader 5 that this function calculates the distance from a point to a line, given the coordinates of two points on the line and the point. Function Parameters:- double lx1: the x coordinate of the first point of the line.
Usage
This tool is typically used for enhancing chart analysis and decision making.
Platform
This Script works exclusively on MetaTrader 5 (both build 600+ and newer versions).
Setup
Place the downloaded file in MQL5/Scripts folder via File ? Open Data Folder in MetaTrader 5.
How to Install and Use Distance from Point to Line
1. Installation: Move your script file into the MQL/Scripts directory and restart the platform.
2. Execution: Drag the script onto a chart; it will perform a one-time action, such as closing all open orders or clearing chart objects.
3. Editing: Use MetaEditor (F4) to modify code, click "Compile," and verify no errors appear in the terminal before running.
4. Removing: Scripts stop automatically, but you can remove them manually by right-clicking the chart and choosing "Remove Script."
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How are scripts different from EAs? A: Scripts execute a single action and then stop; EAs monitor the market and trade continuously.
Q: Can I assign a hotkey to a script? A: Yes, right-click the script in the Navigator, select "Set Hotkey," and define your preferred keyboard shortcut.
Q: Why did my script stop? A: Scripts are designed to stop immediately after finishing their programmed command; this is normal behavior.
What this tool does
This function calculates the distance from a point to a line, given the coordinates of two points on the line and the point.
Typical Use Case
This Script excels in automated trading and technical analysis on MetaTrader 5.
Compatible Platform & Setup
This Script works on MetaTrader 5. Place the file in the MQL5/Scripts folder and restart the terminal.
Description & Settings
Related: OHLC Backtesting Accuracy: Determining the Critical Stop Distance - another powerful script for MetaTrader 5 traders.
This function calculates the distance from a point to a line, given the coordinates of two points on the line and the point.Also recommended: create csv history file from mt5 for mt4 - similar script with strong performance on MetaTrader 5.
Function Parameters:
- double lx1: the x coordinate of the first point of the line.
- double ly1: the y coordinate of the first point of the line.
- double lx2: the x coordinate of the second point of the line.
- double ly2: the y coordinate of the second point of the line.
- double dx: the x coordinate of the point.
- double dy: the y coordinate of the point.
Calculation Principle:
Based on the coordinates of the two line points, the line formula is derived as y = a + k*x, where the coefficient k determines the line's slope, and a represents the y-intercept.
The coefficient k is calculated as follows:
The constant a is determined by:
To find the distance from the point to the line, a perpendicular is drawn to the line. Rotating the drawing 90 degrees counterclockwise yields a line with the same slope as the original line but with a negative sign. This new line's equation is x = a - ky.
The constant a is calculated as:
With the formulas of the two lines, the point of intersection is determined by substituting y from the first line into the second line's formula, resulting in the x-coordinate of the intersection:
Substituting this x-value into the first line's formula gives the y-coordinate of the intersection:
With the coordinates of these two points, the distance between them is calculated along the x and y axes, and then the Pythagorean theorem is applied to find the final distance.
For further discussion, please refer to the provided resources.
You may also like: Reading and Printing Data from a Local File - excellent alternative for script users on MetaTrader 5.
Source Code
#property copyright "robotfx"
#property link "https://robotfx.org"
#property version "1.00"
void onstart()
{
double d=dottolinedist(78,251,138,226,346,208);
alert(d);
}
double dottolinedist(double lx1,double ly1,double lx2,double ly2,double dx, double dy){
double k=(ly2-ly1)/(lx2-lx1);
.......
⚠ Limitations & Risk Warning
- This tool is provided for educational and testing purposes only.
- Past performance does not guarantee future results.
- Trading involves substantial risk of loss. Use on a demo account first.
- Results may vary depending on market conditions, broker, and settings.
- We recommend thorough backtesting and forward testing before using with real funds.