Use the prediction wizard inputs page to select inputs that the neural network should use as inputs to the prediction and control how those inputs are optimized. For more information see Neural Network – Input Discussion and Neural Network – Optimization Discussion.

• To Select the optimization method used to determine the best inputs and input parameters for the trading strategy:

1. Select the desired optimization method from the drop down box

No Input Optimization – Uses the user specified rules. Performs no modifications to any rules or rule parameters.

Input Parameter Optimization – All of the inputs are used, but the GA evolves optimum parameters during optimization. These parameters do not produce inputs that are individually optimum, but optimal as a complete set.

Input Selection Optimization – Chooses among all the inputs listed, leaving only the ones that work best together during optimization. Does not modify any of the input parameters.

Full Input Optimization – Performs both Parameter Optimization and Input Selection at the same time.

Custom Input Optimization – Allows individual selection of which inputs are optimized, which inputs are always used, which parameters are optimized and which parameters are locked to their original value.

Make a list of the inputs you wish to use for your prediction.

• To add data items to the list:

1. Press the Add Input(s) button.

• To show or hide an input’s parameters or parameter ranges:

1. Click on the + sign to the left of the input to show its parameters or parameter ranges. To modify the parameter or parameter range, press the Modify Parameter button or double click the parameter or parameter range.

2. Click on the – sign to the left of the input to hide its parameters or parameter ranges.

• To modify an input, input’s parameter, or input’s parameter range:

1. Select the item in the list you wish to modify.

2. Press the Modify Input button or Modify Parameter button (depending on what item you have selected).

Or

1. By double-clicking on the item in the list you wish to modify.

• To remove items from the list:

1. Select the item or items in the list you wish to remove.

2. Press the Remove Input(s) button or press the delete button on you keyboard.

• To individually control parameter optimization of an input parameter:

1. Click in the box to the left of the parameter name.

A black lock icon in the box to the left of a parameter, indicates that NeuroShell will only use the listed parameter value.

A red circular arrows icon in the box to the left of a parameter, indicates that NeuroShell Trader will determine a parameter value within the listed parameter range that gives the best results during optimization.

A gray circular arrows icon in the box to the left of a parameter, indicates that the listed parameter range specifies only a single value, so NeuroShell Trader will only use that single value.

• To individually control input selection optimization for an input:

1. Click in the box to the left of the input.

A black lock icon in the box to the left of the input, indicates that NeuroShell will always use that input.

A red circular arrows icon in the box to the left of the input, indicates that NeuroShell Trader will determine during optimization whether or not that input should be used to obtain optimal results.

When an input’s parameters are not shown/expanded, a black lock icon with small red arrows in the lower right corner, simply indicates that although the input itself is always used, one or more of it’s undisplayed parameters will be optimized. In other words, parameter optimization is enabled for this particular input.

When an input’s parameters are not shown/expanded, a red circular arrows icon with small black lock in the lower right corner, simply indicates that although NeuroShell will determine during optimization whether or not the input is used, none of it’s undisplayed parameters are being optimized. In other words, rule selection is enabled for this particular input.

When you are finished making a list of inputs you wish to use for your prediction press the Next button to proceed to the next wizard screen.

Note:

• If you have selected Parameter Optimization or Full Optimization and you do not want a particular parameter to be optimized, then set both its beginning and ending parameter range to the same value.
• Switching back and forth between custom optimization and one of the first four optimization modes will remember your last custom settings. However, when in one of the first four optimization modes, modifying the individual optimization settings of a rule or parameter will automatically switch to custom optimization and any previous custom settings will be lost.

 
Topics of Interest:
What are Neural Networks?
Neural Network – Input Discussion
Neural Network – Optimization Discussion
Troubleshooting Your Model – What to Do if You Feel You Haven’t Been Successful
Using Predictions
What are Genetic Algorithms?
How Does a Genetic Algorithm Work?
Why is a Genetic Algorithm Better Than Other Optimizers?
What Types of Problems Do Genetic Algorithms Solve?
How are Genetic Algorithms Used in the NeuroShell Trader Professional?