How do I get involved in the stock market?

[Xanthia Alysha]

I want to invest but i don't know how much when & where...
Basically, I have little knowledge of how the stock market works, and I just want to get started. What I really want to know is how stocks and the stock market works, how to play the market - things like that. In fact, if there's recommended reading on the subject for beginners, that'd be great too. Any other advice about particular stocks, or even advice about other preferable investment options, would also be greatly appreciated.

[Salena Maxine]

I would hold onto your money. The stock market is a very risky bet right now.

[mrmoney617]

Right now since the dow and s&p 500 is at historical highs i would suggest using this time to perform research by reading on such sites as marketwatch,msn money, yahoo finance. I would suggest reading Rule #1 by Phil Town, and anything about Warren Buffett which is the ceo of the conglormate Berkshire Hathaway. I would stay away fromt the dummie brand books which are very useless.

Hope this helps,

Mr. Money

[GLD2010]

There is plenty of information out there. Learn about the fundamentals. A lot of investing is common sense. The key is research.

[Fini Shell]

The best way to start investing is to have a plan. It is important to have a diverse portfolio. What this means is not to have all your eggs in one basket. For instance, if you put all your money in one stock, than you have the potential to loose a lot of money if something happens to that company. But if you have your money spread into several companies if one is hurt and one is good it balances out.