Backtest, demo and live results: three different records

What each record measures

A backtest applies rules to historical data. A demo account exposes the current software to an account environment without real capital. A live account records executions with real funds under that account's conditions. Each can reveal something useful, but none should silently stand in for another.

Read the test configuration

Identify the data source, test dates, instrument, timeframe and execution assumptions. Determine whether spread, commission and swap were included. Check how the test resolves a candle that touches both stop and target. A test using candle prices and a test using tick data can answer different questions about the same rules.

Understand drawdown and the path of returns

For an illustrative equity path, a peak of USD 12,000 followed by USD 10,800 represents a 10% decline from that peak. That differs from calculating a change relative to a USD 10,000 starting balance. Always identify whether the reported drawdown uses balance or equity and whether open positions are included.

Look for selection effects

A strategy repeatedly tuned to the same data can look strong because the rules were selected for that history. Examine whether a separate period was evaluated and whether the configuration was fixed before it. A short run or a small number of trades provides a limited view of behaviour; avoid interpreting one favourable chart as a complete assessment.

Verify published accounts in context

• Open any Myfxbook or MQL5 link at the original service.
• Check Demo versus Live, reporting dates and deposits or withdrawals.
• Inspect open positions, exposure and drawdown alongside growth.
• Compare the account settings with the tested model's settings.
• Treat absent third-party profiles as unpublished evidence, not verification.