Understanding the plot() Parameters in Pine Script

In this tutorial, we will delve into the parameters of the plot() function in Pine Script Version 5, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of its features and applications.

Overview of plot() Parameters

Mandatory Parameter: series

• Description: The series parameter is the only compulsory one in the plot() function.
• Type: Must be of “series int/float” type.
• Auto-casting Rules: Pine Script follows a casting hierarchy: int → float → bool. Thus, a “bool” type variable must be converted to an “int” or a “float” to be used in plot().
• Example: If isNewDay is a “bool” type, use isNewDay ? 1 : 0 to plot 1 when true and 0 when false.

Optional Parameters

1. title

• Type: “const string”
• Usage: Appears in various UI elements like the script’s scale, Data Window, and “Settings/Style” tab.
• Compile Time: Must be known at compile time.

2. color

• Type: “series color”
• Flexibility: Can be calculated dynamically, bar by bar.

3. linewidth

• Application: Refers to the size of the plotted element, primarily in pixels for line styles.

4. style

• Variants: Includes plot.style_line, plot.style_linebr, plot.style_stepline, plot.style_area, plot.style_areabr, plot.style_columns, plot.style_histogram, plot.style_circles, and plot.style_cross.
• Purpose: Determines the visual representation style of the plot.

5. trackprice

• Default: false
• Functionality: When true, plots a dotted line across the script’s visual space.

6. histbase

• Role: Serves as a reference point in certain plot styles.
• Type: “input int/float”

7. offset

• Purpose: Shifts the plot in time (past/future).
• Type: Integer representing the offset in bars.

8. join

• Applicability: Only for plot.style_circles or plot.style_cross.
• Function: Joins shapes with a line when set to true.

9. editable

• Default: true
• Control: Allows editing of plot properties in the “Settings/Style” tab.

10. show_last

• Usage: Controls the visibility of the last bars in the plotted values.
• Type: “input int”

11. display

• Default: display.all
• Options: Includes display.none, useful for invisible plots used as external inputs or in alertcondition() calls.

Key Features and Takeaways

• Mandatory vs Optional: series is the only mandatory parameter, making plot() highly customizable with optional parameters.
• Type Specificity: Each parameter has a specific type requirement, ensuring precision in plotting.
• Styling Flexibility: Multiple style options cater to different visual preferences and data representation needs.
• Dynamic Calculations: Parameters like color can be dynamically calculated, offering flexibility in plotting different conditions.
• Visibility Control: Features like show_last and display provide control over the plot’s visibility and impact on the script’s visual space.

By understanding these parameters and their applications, you can effectively utilize the plot() function in Pine Script to create insightful and visually appealing indicators and strategies on TradingView.