Identify what you are looking at
A backtest simulates a strategy on historical data. Forward observation evaluates what happens as new data arrives; the account may still be a demo. A live account uses real execution conditions. These are distinct forms of evidence, not interchangeable labels.
Ask about the period and conditions
Check the date range, instrument, timeframe, account type and settings. Consider whether the sample includes different market conditions. A result from one short period cannot describe every environment a strategy may encounter.
Look at risk alongside returns
A headline return leaves out the path taken to reach it. Ask about drawdown, losing periods, trade count and exposure. MetaTrader testing reports distinguish several drawdown measures; check which one is being quoted rather than treating every number as equivalent.
Understand costs and assumptions
Spreads, commissions, execution assumptions and settings can change a result. Ask what was included and what was simplified. Small changes to a highly tuned configuration may reveal how dependent a result is on its assumptions.
Keep conclusions proportionate
No historical result guarantees a future return. Our proprietary systems remain in development and forward testing, and this website does not present a verified live track record. Ask for the evidence and its limitations before drawing a conclusion.