IBKR’s brand new course “Python TWS API” shows traders how to get started with our Trader Workstation and the Python API.
This Algo Trading-oriented track follows an intuitive outline, with engaging short video tutorials, Study Notes that supplement the project materials, and links to additional resources.
The course starts with Lesson 1 “What is the TWS API?“. It touches upon program prerequisites, what the intended audience is and focuses on enabling the proper TWS settings.
Lesson 2 “Installing & Configuring TWS for the API” demonstrates how to install our Trader Workstation (TWS) and IB Gateway, and which socket ports to enable for the API connections.
Next, in Lesson 3, viewers get familiar with how to access the TWS Python API source code. These helpful samples demonstrate how to define the messages that will be transmitted between the TWS and your API application.
Moreover, these code samples are further illustrated in Lesson 4 “Essential components of TWS API programs“. The module helps users learn about the most important classes – EClient and EWrapper.
Lesson 5 “Requesting Market Data – Code Walkthrough” showcases how to retrieve real-time and historical market data.
Further into the course, Lesson 6, which is titled “Placing Orders using TWS Python API“, presents how to place, monitor, modify, or cancel orders from the TWS API.
In addition to the basic order type samples in Lesson 6, traders find detailed instructions on how to place combo and bracket orders in Lesson 7. See “TWS Python API Placing Complex Orders” for details and ready to use Python code.
In the following chapter, Lesson 8 “Accessing Portfolio Data and Account Information“, traders explore a workaround solution on how to retrieve account data, using the functions ReqAccountUpdates, ReqPositions and ReqPositionsMulti.
The program continues with Lesson 9 “TWS Python API Market Parameters and Scanners” where viewers receive instructions on how to code market scanner parameters.
The final module, Lesson 10 “TWS Python API Concurrency Example“, explains what concurrency is and presents basic concepts behind it.
A Closer Look at Lesson 1
Let’s take a quick look at the tutorial in Lesson 1 and find out how to get started with configuring the TWS settings for the API connection.
Visit the IBKR Traders’ Academy course for additional insights on this topic: https://tradersacademy.online/trading-lesson/what-is-the-tws-api.
Disclosure: Interactive Brokers
The analysis in this material is provided for information only and is not and should not be construed as an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy any security. To the extent that this material discusses general market activity, industry or sector trends or other broad-based economic or political conditions, it should not be construed as research or investment advice. To the extent that it includes references to specific securities, commodities, currencies, or other instruments, those references do not constitute a recommendation by IBKR to buy, sell or hold such investments. This material does not and is not intended to take into account the particular financial conditions, investment objectives or requirements of individual customers. Before acting on this material, you should consider whether it is suitable for your particular circumstances and, as necessary, seek professional advice.
The views and opinions expressed herein are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of Interactive Brokers, its affiliates, or its employees.
Disclosure: API Examples Discussed
Throughout the lesson, please keep in mind that the examples discussed are purely for technical demonstration purposes, and do not constitute trading advice. Also, it is important to remember that placing trades in a paper account is recommended before any live trading.
Disclosure: Displaying Symbols on Video
Any stock, options or futures symbols displayed are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to portray recommendations.
Disclosure: Order Types / TWS
The order types available through Interactive Brokers LLC's Trader Workstation are designed to help you limit your loss and/or lock in a profit. Market conditions and other factors may affect execution. In general, orders guarantee a fill or guarantee a price, but not both. In extreme market conditions, an order may either be executed at a different price than anticipated or may not be filled in the marketplace.