# Strategy Presets Guide

BananaEA can use MetaTrader `.set` files to load groups of EA inputs.

This page explains how to use preset files safely. Presets are not performance promises. They are starting configurations that must be checked against your broker, symbol, timeframe, and risk tolerance.

## What A Preset File Does[​](#what-a-preset-file-does "Direct link to What A Preset File Does")

A `.set` file can store inputs such as:

* Symbol or timeframe assumptions
* Risk method
* Stop loss and take profit settings
* Trading hours
* Signal toggles
* Trade management settings
* Alert and display preferences

Loading a preset changes EA inputs. Always review important settings before enabling AutoTrading.

## Where To Put Presets[​](#where-to-put-presets "Direct link to Where To Put Presets")

Copy `.set` files into:

```
MQL4/Presets/
```

Then load them from the EA Inputs window using the **Load** button.

## How To Load A Preset[​](#how-to-load-a-preset "Direct link to How To Load A Preset")

1. Open the intended MT4 chart.
2. Attach BananaEA or open its properties.
3. Go to the **Inputs** tab.
4. Click **Load**.
5. Select the `.set` file.
6. Review the loaded settings.
7. Confirm risk settings before clicking **OK**.

## Before Using A Preset[​](#before-using-a-preset "Direct link to Before Using A Preset")

Check:

* Symbol matches the preset name or notes.
* Timeframe matches the preset name or notes.
* Risk method is understood.
* Lot size calculation is acceptable.
* Maximum open trades is acceptable.
* Trading hours make sense for the symbol.
* Broker spread and contract specifications are suitable.

## Manual Configuration[​](#manual-configuration "Direct link to Manual Configuration")

If you are not using a preset, configure settings manually and keep notes.

Start with:

* Small risk.
* Limited number of open trades.
* Clear trading hours.
* Only the signal groups you intend to test.
* Demo testing before live use.

## Trade Management Mode[​](#trade-management-mode "Direct link to Trade Management Mode")

When `Magic = 0`, BananaEA may operate as a trade manager for existing trades instead of opening new automated trades.

Before using this mode:

* Confirm which trades it will manage.
* Review stop loss and take profit methods.
* Check break-even, trailing, and partial-close settings.
* Test on demo first.

## Preset Testing Checklist[​](#preset-testing-checklist "Direct link to Preset Testing Checklist")

* 
  Preset file copied to `MQL4/Presets/`.
* 
  Correct symbol chart opened.
* 
  Correct timeframe selected.
* 
  Preset loaded in EA Inputs.
* 
  Risk settings reviewed.
* 
  Stop loss and take profit settings reviewed.
* 
  Trading hours reviewed.
* 
  Demo test completed.
* 
  Experts and Journal tabs checked.

## Updating Presets[​](#updating-presets "Direct link to Updating Presets")

When a preset file is updated:

1. Keep a copy of the old file if you need to compare behavior.
2. Load the new file on demo first.
3. Check changed inputs.
4. Run a backtest or demo observation period.
5. Use live only after you understand the changes.

## Support[​](#support "Direct link to Support")

If you need help, provide:

* Preset file name.
* BananaEA version.
* Symbol and timeframe.
* Broker and account type.
* Screenshot of loaded inputs if relevant.
* Experts and Journal messages.

Related pages:

* [Settings Guide](/banana-ea/mt4/docs/v4/complete-user-guide/settings-guide.md)
* [Risk Management](/banana-ea/mt4/docs/v4/risk-management.md)
* [Troubleshooting](/banana-ea/mt4/docs/v4/troubleshooting.md)