# Importing Data

Historical data may be imported into MotiveWave™ by choosing ***Chart > Data > Import Data*** from the top Console menu bar. Two types of data formats are supported:

* **CSV** – Comma Separated Values. This is a very common format for many historical data services. The format of the data file will be automatically detected when specifying files of this type.
* **MetaStock™ Database (Files or Directory)** – MetaStock™ Database files or directory containing 1 or more instruments may be imported into MotiveWave’s historical database.

<figure><img src="/files/iy5D2ieV6lzUlCoeXXQ1" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

This dialog has the following elements:

* **Data Files** – Specify one or more data files by clicking on the Add button to left of the Data Files list.
* **Time Zone** – Choose the time zone for the input file. This is important for resolving the data/time values for each historical price bar in the input file.
* **Exchange** – Optionally Choose the Exchange for the instrument(s) in the input file(s).
* **Trading Hours** – If a value is chosen for Trading Hours, it will be assigned to the instrument when it is created from this dialog.
* **Adjust for Stock Splits** – If the file does not contain split adjusted values, this will detect and adjust historical prices for splits.
* **Automatically Create Instrument (Do Not Prompt)** – If the instrument does not already exist in the local database, it will be automatically created if this is checked.
* **Replace Existing Data** – Replaces data that is already in the local historical database.
* **Monitor Input File For Changes** – If checked, MotiveWave™ will monitor the timestamp on the input file to see if it changes in the future. If it does change, the new data will be automatically loaded into MotiveWave™ when a chart is loaded.


---

# Agent Instructions: Querying This Documentation

If you need additional information that is not directly available in this page, you can query the documentation dynamically by asking a question.

Perform an HTTP GET request on the current page URL with the `ask` query parameter:

```
GET https://docs.motivewave.com/user-guide/charts-1/importing-data.md?ask=<question>
```

The question should be specific, self-contained, and written in natural language.
The response will contain a direct answer to the question and relevant excerpts and sources from the documentation.

Use this mechanism when the answer is not explicitly present in the current page, you need clarification or additional context, or you want to retrieve related documentation sections.