MetaTrader 4, like any robust software for technical analysis and trading, offers many configuration options and advanced functionalities. As MT4 users progress in their understanding of the platform they may find it easier to navigate using MT4 keyboard shortcuts.
There are many very useful keyboard shortcuts that can simplify and speed up the process of executing certain actions. Using the shortcuts can be a lot quicker than navigating within the hierarchical menu structures with a mouse or trackpad.
Here is a quick list of the 15 most useful keyboard shortcuts in MT4 terminal. These shortcuts work in Windows and some also work on Mac.
| MT4 Keyboard Shortcuts | Their actions and function |
|---|---|
| Function (f) + F1 | Opens the User Guide |
| Function (f) + F4 | Opens the Meta Editor application |
| Function (f) + F6 | Opens the Strategy Tester for the active expert advisor |
| Function (f) + F8 | Opens Chart Properties to modify the look and feel of the active chart |
| Function (f) + F9 | Opens the New Order window |
| Function (f) + F11 | Turns on/off the Full Screen mode of the active chart |
| Control (Ctrl) + B | Opens the Objects window of the current chart |
| Control (Ctrl) + E | Enables and Disables the Expert Advisor on the chart |
| Control (Ctrl) + I | Opens the Indicator List window |
| Control (Ctrl) + L | Shows and hides the Volumes bars on the chart |
| Control (Ctrl) + M | Shows and hides the Market Watch window |
| Control (Ctrl) + N | Shows and hides the Navigator window |
| Control (Ctrl) + T | Shows and hides the Terminal window |
| + or – | Zooms in or zooms out the price action on active chart |
| Alt + R | Tile open chart windows next to each other |
The above listed MT4 keyboard shortcuts will speed up your navigation within the platform and making your actions more efficient. It may take a little bit of time before you’ll use them without thinking, but the learning curve is worth it.
Today many technical analysts and traders rely on cloud software such as TradingView or other online software offered by brokers. Even though connectivity speeds are increasing in most countries, so is the user base and online demand. Online software can be significantly slower than software installed and running on your local computer.
Some brokers offer access to MetaTrader 4 without the need for local installation on your computer. This functions in a similar way as a other online trading platforms and it has similar limitations.
Running MT4 terminal from a local computer with a fast and stable internet connection, and using Meta Trader keyboard shortcuts is how many professional traders operate.
Other MT4 keyboard shortcuts
Obviously, there are many more shortcuts available in Meta Trader 4. We felt that those 15 shortcuts listed above are the most useful in general operation of the platform. The truth is that some users will prefer to use other functions more often.
You may have asked yourself what happened to the F2 or F3 keys? Well, they also have a function. Feel free to explore the mystery hidden behind those keys and learn more about the MT4 platform.