Import Guide

AlgoChef supports importing trade data from CSV, TXT, Excel, HTML, and TradeStation/Multicharts RINA XML files — one file at a time or many at once. This section covers supported formats, field mappings, and how to create reusable templates.

Supported Formats

Batch import: select multiple files in one go. The wizard detects each file, offers a per-file review step (approve or skip each), and can apply one saved template across the whole batch.

P&L Calculation Priority

AlgoChef determines trade P&L using a 2-step priority:

1. Direct P&L column — If your file has a net_profit, profit_loss, or similar column, AlgoChef uses it directly
2. Price calculation — If entry/exit prices and quantity are available: (exitPrice - entryPrice) × quantity × bigPointValue

Post-Import Processing

After mapping columns, AlgoChef automatically:

1. Sorts trades by exit date
2. Calculates equity curve from sequential P&L
3. Computes all 200+ metrics
4. Generates the 5-score system ratings
5. Creates distribution analysis and drawdown data

Format Templates

If you import from the same platform regularly, save your column mapping as a template:

• System templates — Pre-built for common platforms
• User templates — Your custom mappings, reusable across imports

Detailed Guides

• CSV Format Reference — Column specifications and examples
• TradeStation/Multicharts RINA XML — Exporting from TradeStation
• NinjaTrader Import Guide — Exporting from NinjaTrader 8
• MetaTrader Import Guide — Exporting from MT4 and MT5
• Excel & Manual Trade Journal — Formatting spreadsheet data for import