NightShark : If/Else Statements

Introduction

In the world of algo-trading, decision-making is at the core of any successful strategy. NightShark, a desktop application designed for automated trading through UI automation, provides a robust framework for making these decisions. One of the most fundamental tools at your disposal in NightShark is the use of if-else statements. This blog post aims to explore how these conditional statements can be effectively used to guide your trading algorithms.

What Are if-else Statements?

If-else statements are a basic form of conditional logic used in programming. They allow you to execute certain pieces of code based on whether a particular condition is met. In the context of NightShark, these statements can be used to make trading decisions based on real-time metrics captured from your trading platform.

Why Are if-else Statements Important?

In algo-trading, the ability to make quick, accurate decisions based on real-time data is crucial. If-else statements enable you to set specific conditions under which certain actions, like buying or selling a stock, should be executed. This allows for a high degree of customization and control over your trading strategies.

How to Use if-else Statements in NightShark

Using if-else statements in NightShark is straightforward. Here's a simplified example:

loop {
  read_areas()
  if (toNumber(area[1]) > 20) {
    Click(point.a)  // Executes a Buy order
  } else if (toNumber(area[1]) < -10) {
    Click(point.b)  // Executes a Sell order
  } else {
    // Do nothing, or execute another action
  }
  Sleep 1000  // Pauses for 1 second before the next iteration
}

In this example, read_areas() captures metrics from a predefined area (e.g., stock price). The toNumber() function converts this metric into a numerical value. Then, an if-else statement is used to decide what action to take:

• If the stock price is above 20, a Buy order is executed.
• If the stock price is below -10, a Sell order is executed.
• Otherwise, no action is taken (or another action could be specified).

Combining if-else with Other Functions

The true power of if-else statements is realized when they are combined with other NightShark functions like read_areas() for data capture, toNumber() for data conversion, and Click() for action execution. This combination allows you to build complex, yet efficient, trading algorithms that can adapt to real-time market conditions.

Conclusion

If-else statements are a fundamental building block in the architecture of automated trading strategies within NightShark. By allowing you to set specific conditions for your trades, they offer a level of customization and control that can be the difference between a profitable and a losing algorithm. With if-else statements, you're not just coding; you're crafting intelligent, responsive trading strategies.

Happy Trading!