Templates are a cornerstone of efficient content management and consistent formatting within a MediaWiki installation. They allow you to create reusable content blocks that can be dynamically inserted into multiple pages, saving you time and effort while ensuring a uniform look and feel across your wiki. This article will provide a comprehensive introduction to templates, covering their creation, usage, parameters, and more advanced techniques. This guide assumes you are using MediaWiki version 1.40 or later.
At their core, templates are simply wiki pages that contain pre-defined content and, optionally, variables. These variables, called *parameters*, allow you to customize the content of the template when you include it on a page. Think of a template as a blueprint; you can use the same blueprint to create many similar, but slightly different, structures.
Consider a scenario where you need to display information about various stocks on several pages. Each stock listing requires the same basic format: symbol, company name, current price, and a brief description. Instead of repeating this format on every page, you can create a template to encapsulate it. You then only need to fill in the specific stock details each time you use the template. This promotes consistency and makes updating information significantly easier. If the price fluctuates, updating the template ensures the change reflects across all pages using it. This is a basic example of utilizing variables within a template.
Creating a Template
Templates are created like any other wiki page, but they *must* be in the "Template:" namespace. For instance, to create a template for stock information, you would create a page called "Template:StockInfo".
1. **Navigate to the Template Page:** Type `Template:StockInfo` into the search box and press Enter. If the page doesn't exist, you'll be prompted to create it.
2. **Edit the Page:** Click the "Edit" button.
3. **Define the Template Content:** Use standard wiki markup to define the content of the template. Include parameters using a special syntax (explained in the next section).
Here's a simple example of the "Template:StockInfo" content:
In this example, `N/A`, `Unknown`, `Loading...`, and `No description available.`, represent parameters. The text after the pipe (`|`) is a default value that will be used if the parameter is not provided when the template is used.
4. **Save the Page:** Click the "Save page" button.
Using Templates
To use a template on a page, use the `#invoke` or `#tag` parser function, or the older, simpler `
Template:Infobox Trading Strategy
This article details the use of the `Template:Infobox Trading Strategy` template in MediaWiki. This template is designed to standardize the presentation of information about various trading strategies within a wiki dedicated to financial markets, technical analysis, and trading. It provides a consistent and easily navigable format for users to understand the key characteristics, mechanics, and performance metrics of different strategies. This is crucial for a knowledge base that aims to be both comprehensive and user-friendly.
Purpose
The primary purpose of `Template:Infobox Trading Strategy` is to create a concise, informative summary of a trading strategy on a dedicated page. This allows readers to quickly grasp the core concepts without needing to read lengthy, detailed explanations. It also facilitates comparison between different strategies. The template focuses on providing structured data, aiding in research and understanding, and promoting a standardized approach to documenting strategies. Without such a template, information could be scattered and inconsistent, making it difficult for newcomers to learn and experienced traders to quickly reference key details.
Usage
To use the template, simply include `Template:Infobox Trading Strategy` at the beginning of a page dedicated to a trading strategy. The template uses a series of parameters to populate the infobox with specific information. Here's a breakdown of each parameter:
`strategy_name`: (Required) The name of the trading strategy. This should be the common name used to refer to the strategy (e.g., "Moving Average Crossover", "Fibonacci Retracement").
`image`: (Optional) A URL to an image illustrating the strategy, such as a chart with the strategy applied. The image should be relevant and informative. Use the `File:ImageName.png` format.
`image_caption`: (Optional) A caption for the image, providing context or explaining what the image depicts.
`type`: (Optional) The category of trading strategy. Examples include "Trend Following", "Mean Reversion", "Breakout", "Scalping", "Day Trading", "Swing Trading", "Position Trading", "Arbitrage", "Algorithmic Trading". Use a link to a relevant wiki page if one exists (e.g., `Trend Following`).
`asset_class`: (Optional) The asset class the strategy is best suited for. Examples include "Forex", "Stocks", "Cryptocurrencies", "Commodities", "Options", "Futures". Use a link where appropriate (e.g., `Forex`).
`timeframe`: (Optional) The recommended timeframe for using the strategy (e.g., "5-minute", "15-minute", "Daily", "Weekly").
`indicators`: (Optional) A comma-separated list of technical indicators used in the strategy. Link to relevant indicator pages where available (e.g., "Moving Average", "RSI", "MACD", "Bollinger Bands").
`risk_level`: (Optional) The level of risk associated with the strategy. Options include "Low", "Moderate", "High", "Very High".
`profit_potential`: (Optional) The potential profit level of the strategy. Options include "Low", "Moderate", "High", "Very High".
`complexity`: (Optional) The complexity of the strategy. Options include "Simple", "Intermediate", "Complex".
`entry_rules`: (Optional) A brief description of the rules for entering a trade. Be concise.
`exit_rules`: (Optional) A brief description of the rules for exiting a trade. Be concise.
`stop_loss`: (Optional) How stop-loss levels are determined (e.g., "Percentage based", "Support/Resistance", "ATR").
`take_profit`: (Optional) How take-profit levels are determined (e.g., "Risk/Reward Ratio", "Resistance Level", "Fibonacci Extension").
`backtesting_results`: (Optional) A summary of backtesting results, including win rate, average profit per trade, and maximum drawdown. Be specific and provide dates for the backtest.
`notes`: (Optional) Any additional notes or considerations regarding the strategy.
`see_also`: (Optional) A comma-separated list of related strategies or concepts. Link to relevant wiki pages.
Example
Here's an example of how the template might be used to document a "Moving Average Crossover" strategy:
The Moving Average Crossover is a widely used trend-following strategy... (rest of the article content)
```
Advanced Usage & Considerations
**Consistent Formatting:** Maintain consistency in the information provided for each strategy. This makes it easier to compare strategies and identify potential opportunities.
**Accuracy:** Ensure the information provided is accurate and up-to-date. Backtesting results should be clearly documented and the methodology explained.
**Objectivity:** Present the strategy objectively, highlighting both its strengths and weaknesses. Avoid making overly optimistic claims.
**Image Quality:** Use high-quality images that are clear and easy to understand. Ensure the images are properly labeled and captioned.
**Regular Updates:** Trading strategies can evolve over time. Regularly review and update the information in the infobox to reflect any changes.
**Backtesting Details:** When providing backtesting results, include details such as the backtesting period, the asset tested, the commission costs, and the slippage assumptions.
**Risk Disclosure:** Always include a disclaimer stating that trading involves risk and that past performance is not indicative of future results.
**Parameter Descriptions:** When describing parameters like `stop_loss` and `take_profit`, be specific about how those levels are calculated. For example, instead of simply saying "Percentage based," specify "2% below entry price."
**Alternative Strategies:** In the `see_also` section, consider linking to alternative strategies that address the same market conditions or trading goals.
**Nested Templates:** While not directly part of this template, consider using nested templates for complex indicators or concepts to avoid cluttering the infobox.
Troubleshooting
**Infobox Not Rendering:** If the infobox is not rendering correctly, double-check the syntax of the template tags and parameters. Ensure that all required parameters are present and that there are no typos.
**Image Not Displaying:** If the image is not displaying, verify that the image file exists and that the URL is correct. Also, check the image permissions to ensure that it is publicly accessible.
**Incorrect Formatting:** If the formatting is incorrect, review the MediaWiki syntax for the template and ensure that it is being used correctly. Pay attention to whitespace and special characters.
**Parameter Conflicts:** If you encounter parameter conflicts, ensure that you are not using the same parameter name multiple times.
Future Enhancements
**Automated Backtesting Integration:** Integrate the template with automated backtesting tools to automatically populate the `backtesting_results` parameter.
**Performance Visualization:** Add a feature to dynamically generate charts and graphs based on the backtesting results.
**Strategy Comparison Tool:** Develop a tool that allows users to compare multiple strategies side-by-side based on the information in the infoboxes.
**User-Contributed Data:** Allow users to contribute data and feedback on strategies, subject to moderation.
**Dynamic Risk Assessment:** Implement a dynamic risk assessment feature that calculates the risk level of a strategy based on its parameters and market conditions.
**Integration with Real-Time Data Feeds:** Connect the template to real-time data feeds to provide live performance updates.
**Multilingual Support:** Translate the template into multiple languages to make it accessible to a wider audience.
**Improved Search Functionality:** Enhance the wiki's search functionality to allow users to easily find strategies based on specific criteria.
This `Template:Infobox Trading Strategy` is a vital tool for building a comprehensive and user-friendly wiki dedicated to trading and technical analysis. By adhering to the guidelines outlined in this article, contributors can ensure that the information presented is consistent, accurate, and informative, ultimately benefiting all users of the wiki. The careful application of this template, combined with diligent research and clear writing, will significantly enhance the quality and value of the wiki's content.
Subscribe to our Telegram channel @strategybin to receive:
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✓ Educational materials for beginners` syntax. The latter is generally preferred for simple templates. For more complex templates involving multiple parameters and logic, `#invoke` is recommended.
**Simple Inclusion (
Template:Infobox Trading Strategy
This article details the use of the `Template:Infobox Trading Strategy` template in MediaWiki. This template is designed to standardize the presentation of information about various trading strategies within a wiki dedicated to financial markets, technical analysis, and trading. It provides a consistent and easily navigable format for users to understand the key characteristics, mechanics, and performance metrics of different strategies. This is crucial for a knowledge base that aims to be both comprehensive and user-friendly.
Purpose
The primary purpose of `Template:Infobox Trading Strategy` is to create a concise, informative summary of a trading strategy on a dedicated page. This allows readers to quickly grasp the core concepts without needing to read lengthy, detailed explanations. It also facilitates comparison between different strategies. The template focuses on providing structured data, aiding in research and understanding, and promoting a standardized approach to documenting strategies. Without such a template, information could be scattered and inconsistent, making it difficult for newcomers to learn and experienced traders to quickly reference key details.
Usage
To use the template, simply include `Template:Infobox Trading Strategy` at the beginning of a page dedicated to a trading strategy. The template uses a series of parameters to populate the infobox with specific information. Here's a breakdown of each parameter:
`strategy_name`: (Required) The name of the trading strategy. This should be the common name used to refer to the strategy (e.g., "Moving Average Crossover", "Fibonacci Retracement").
`image`: (Optional) A URL to an image illustrating the strategy, such as a chart with the strategy applied. The image should be relevant and informative. Use the `File:ImageName.png` format.
`image_caption`: (Optional) A caption for the image, providing context or explaining what the image depicts.
`type`: (Optional) The category of trading strategy. Examples include "Trend Following", "Mean Reversion", "Breakout", "Scalping", "Day Trading", "Swing Trading", "Position Trading", "Arbitrage", "Algorithmic Trading". Use a link to a relevant wiki page if one exists (e.g., `Trend Following`).
`asset_class`: (Optional) The asset class the strategy is best suited for. Examples include "Forex", "Stocks", "Cryptocurrencies", "Commodities", "Options", "Futures". Use a link where appropriate (e.g., `Forex`).
`timeframe`: (Optional) The recommended timeframe for using the strategy (e.g., "5-minute", "15-minute", "Daily", "Weekly").
`indicators`: (Optional) A comma-separated list of technical indicators used in the strategy. Link to relevant indicator pages where available (e.g., "Moving Average", "RSI", "MACD", "Bollinger Bands").
`risk_level`: (Optional) The level of risk associated with the strategy. Options include "Low", "Moderate", "High", "Very High".
`profit_potential`: (Optional) The potential profit level of the strategy. Options include "Low", "Moderate", "High", "Very High".
`complexity`: (Optional) The complexity of the strategy. Options include "Simple", "Intermediate", "Complex".
`entry_rules`: (Optional) A brief description of the rules for entering a trade. Be concise.
`exit_rules`: (Optional) A brief description of the rules for exiting a trade. Be concise.
`stop_loss`: (Optional) How stop-loss levels are determined (e.g., "Percentage based", "Support/Resistance", "ATR").
`take_profit`: (Optional) How take-profit levels are determined (e.g., "Risk/Reward Ratio", "Resistance Level", "Fibonacci Extension").
`backtesting_results`: (Optional) A summary of backtesting results, including win rate, average profit per trade, and maximum drawdown. Be specific and provide dates for the backtest.
`notes`: (Optional) Any additional notes or considerations regarding the strategy.
`see_also`: (Optional) A comma-separated list of related strategies or concepts. Link to relevant wiki pages.
Example
Here's an example of how the template might be used to document a "Moving Average Crossover" strategy:
The Moving Average Crossover is a widely used trend-following strategy... (rest of the article content)
```
Advanced Usage & Considerations
**Consistent Formatting:** Maintain consistency in the information provided for each strategy. This makes it easier to compare strategies and identify potential opportunities.
**Accuracy:** Ensure the information provided is accurate and up-to-date. Backtesting results should be clearly documented and the methodology explained.
**Objectivity:** Present the strategy objectively, highlighting both its strengths and weaknesses. Avoid making overly optimistic claims.
**Image Quality:** Use high-quality images that are clear and easy to understand. Ensure the images are properly labeled and captioned.
**Regular Updates:** Trading strategies can evolve over time. Regularly review and update the information in the infobox to reflect any changes.
**Backtesting Details:** When providing backtesting results, include details such as the backtesting period, the asset tested, the commission costs, and the slippage assumptions.
**Risk Disclosure:** Always include a disclaimer stating that trading involves risk and that past performance is not indicative of future results.
**Parameter Descriptions:** When describing parameters like `stop_loss` and `take_profit`, be specific about how those levels are calculated. For example, instead of simply saying "Percentage based," specify "2% below entry price."
**Alternative Strategies:** In the `see_also` section, consider linking to alternative strategies that address the same market conditions or trading goals.
**Nested Templates:** While not directly part of this template, consider using nested templates for complex indicators or concepts to avoid cluttering the infobox.
Troubleshooting
**Infobox Not Rendering:** If the infobox is not rendering correctly, double-check the syntax of the template tags and parameters. Ensure that all required parameters are present and that there are no typos.
**Image Not Displaying:** If the image is not displaying, verify that the image file exists and that the URL is correct. Also, check the image permissions to ensure that it is publicly accessible.
**Incorrect Formatting:** If the formatting is incorrect, review the MediaWiki syntax for the template and ensure that it is being used correctly. Pay attention to whitespace and special characters.
**Parameter Conflicts:** If you encounter parameter conflicts, ensure that you are not using the same parameter name multiple times.
Future Enhancements
**Automated Backtesting Integration:** Integrate the template with automated backtesting tools to automatically populate the `backtesting_results` parameter.
**Performance Visualization:** Add a feature to dynamically generate charts and graphs based on the backtesting results.
**Strategy Comparison Tool:** Develop a tool that allows users to compare multiple strategies side-by-side based on the information in the infoboxes.
**User-Contributed Data:** Allow users to contribute data and feedback on strategies, subject to moderation.
**Dynamic Risk Assessment:** Implement a dynamic risk assessment feature that calculates the risk level of a strategy based on its parameters and market conditions.
**Integration with Real-Time Data Feeds:** Connect the template to real-time data feeds to provide live performance updates.
**Multilingual Support:** Translate the template into multiple languages to make it accessible to a wider audience.
**Improved Search Functionality:** Enhance the wiki's search functionality to allow users to easily find strategies based on specific criteria.
This `Template:Infobox Trading Strategy` is a vital tool for building a comprehensive and user-friendly wiki dedicated to trading and technical analysis. By adhering to the guidelines outlined in this article, contributors can ensure that the information presented is consistent, accurate, and informative, ultimately benefiting all users of the wiki. The careful application of this template, combined with diligent research and clear writing, will significantly enhance the quality and value of the wiki's content.
Symbol: AAPL Company: Apple Inc. Price: 170.34 Description: A leading technology company.
**Using `#invoke` (for complex templates):** This method allows for more control and is often used in conjunction with Lua scripting. While beyond the scope of this beginner's guide, it offers increased flexibility. See Help:Extension:Scribunto for more information.
Parameters and Default Values
Parameters are the key to making templates reusable. They allow you to pass different values to the template each time you use it, customizing the output.
**Numbered Parameters:** The example above uses numbered parameters (`{{{1}}}`, `{{{2}}}`, etc.). These are the simplest to use but can become difficult to manage in complex templates. The order in which you provide the parameters matters when using numbered parameters.
**Named Parameters:** Named parameters provide more clarity and flexibility. They are defined using a name followed by an equals sign (`=`) and a default value.
Here's an example of the "Template:StockInfo" modified to use named parameters:
The order of named parameters doesn't matter. You can also omit parameters that have default values.
**Default Values:** The `|` character is used to specify a default value. If a parameter is not provided when the template is used, the default value will be used instead. This ensures that the template always produces a valid output, even if some parameters are missing.
Advanced Template Techniques
**Conditional Statements (`#if`):** You can use conditional statements to display different content based on the value of a parameter. For example, you could display a warning message if the stock price is below a certain threshold.
**Loops (`#loop`):** Loops allow you to repeat a section of code multiple times. This is useful for creating tables or lists based on a set of data.
**Categories:** You can automatically add pages to categories when a template is used. This is useful for organizing content and making it easier to find.
**Template Documentation:** Always document your templates! Use the `/doc` subpage to explain how the template works, its parameters, and examples of its usage. For example, create a page called "Template:StockInfo/doc". This is crucial for maintainability and collaboration. See Help:Template documentation for best practices.
**Parser Functions:** MediaWiki provides a rich set of parser functions that can be used within templates to perform various operations, such as string manipulation, date formatting, and mathematical calculations.
**Transclusion:** Templates leverage the power of transclusion - the inclusion of one page's content into another. This is the fundamental mechanism that makes templates so efficient.
Template Limits and Considerations
**Template Limits:** MediaWiki has limits on the complexity of templates to prevent performance issues. Excessive nesting or complex logic can lead to errors. Keep templates as simple as possible.
**Performance:** Using too many templates or overly complex templates can slow down page rendering. Optimize your templates for performance.
**Circular References:** Avoid creating circular references between templates (e.g., Template A includes Template B, and Template B includes Template A). This will lead to an infinite loop and an error.
**Security:** Be careful when using user-provided input in templates. Sanitize the input to prevent cross-site scripting (XSS) attacks.
Resources and Further Learning
Help:Templates - The official MediaWiki documentation on templates.
Here are some related concepts and strategies that complement template usage within a wiki. These often appear in contexts like technical analysis and market trends:
**Fibonacci Retracements:** A technical analysis tool used to identify potential support and resistance levels. Templates can display these levels. [1]
**Moving Averages:** A trend-following indicator used to smooth out price data. Templates can be used to display moving average values. [2]
**Relative Strength Index (RSI):** An oscillator used to measure the magnitude of recent price changes to evaluate overbought or oversold conditions. [3]
**MACD (Moving Average Convergence Divergence):** A trend-following momentum indicator. [4]
**Bollinger Bands:** Volatility indicator showing a band plotted two standard deviations away from a simple moving average. [5]
**Support and Resistance Levels:** Price levels where the price tends to stop and reverse. Templates can visualize these. [6]
**Head and Shoulders Pattern:** A chart pattern indicating a bearish reversal. Templates can help illustrate this. [7]
**Candlestick Patterns:** Visual representations of price movements that can indicate potential trends. [9]
**Elliott Wave Theory:** A theory that suggests prices move in specific patterns called waves. [10]
**Ichimoku Cloud:** A multi-faceted technical indicator used to forecast price trends. [11]
**Volume Weighted Average Price (VWAP):** A trading benchmark that gives the average price a stock has traded at throughout the day, based on both volume and price. [12]
**ATR (Average True Range):** A measure of market volatility. [13]
**Stochastic Oscillator:** A momentum indicator comparing a security’s closing price to its price range over a given period. [14]
**Trend Lines:** Lines drawn on a chart to connect a series of highs or lows, indicating the direction of a trend. [15]
**Breakout Trading:** A strategy based on price movements breaking through established support or resistance levels. [16]
**Swing Trading:** A short-term trading strategy aiming to profit from price swings. [17]
**Day Trading:** A trading strategy involving buying and selling financial instruments within the same day. [18]
**Scalping:** A trading strategy involving making numerous small profits from small price changes. [19]
**Position Trading:** A long-term trading strategy that focuses on holding positions for months or years. [20]
**Risk Management:** Strategies to minimize potential losses in trading. [21]
**Diversification:** Spreading investments across different assets to reduce risk. [22]
**Dollar-Cost Averaging:** Investing a fixed amount of money at regular intervals. [23]
**Backtesting:** Testing a trading strategy on historical data. [24]
**Algorithmic Trading:** Using computer programs to execute trades based on predefined rules. [25]
**Chart Patterns Recognition:** Identifying recurring visual formations in price charts to predict future price movements. [26]
By mastering templates, you can significantly enhance the efficiency and consistency of your MediaWiki wiki. Remember to document your templates thoroughly and follow best practices to ensure maintainability and performance.
