Check the test conditions
Keep a record of the symbol, timeframe, date range, chart type, settings, fees and slippage assumptions. Comparing reports with different conditions can produce an impressive-looking difference that comes from the test setup rather than the underlying rules.
Look beyond the total
Inspect losing periods, drawdowns, trade counts and individual simulated fills. Try another period that was not used to choose the settings. Historical fitting can make a configuration look convincing without showing that it will hold up later.
Keep simulation and execution separate
A report cannot guarantee the price, liquidity or availability you will encounter live. Use it to investigate behavior and assumptions. Avoid treating a strong historical number as a promise or describing simulated results as customer returns.
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Related guide : Trading signals: useful information, not certainty. →