Before you begin trading, it is very important to learn the stock market basics. Like many, when I began trading I didn't take enough time learning the basics. I thought I would be okay diving straight in.
This resulted in me being confused and caused me to lose money. One of my favorite phrases can be applied to trading stocks. Failing to prepare is preparing to fail.
You will undoubtedly make mistakes while you are still learning. It is natural, but one thing that has greatly helped me to succeed is to do my best to never make the same mistake twice.
I have written many articles on the stock market basics that I feel would have helped me when I started trading stocks.
How to find a stock broker that is right for you
A guide to finding the right stock broker for your trading. Looks at how to avoid the con men in suits!
What is stock trading?
This article looks at what stock trading is and how buying and sell stocks takes place.
Stock Broker Commissions and Fees
Do stock trading commissions and fees really make that much difference to your bottom line when trading?
What are growth stocks?
Earn higher returns with growth stocks, but take on extra risk.
What are blue chip stocks?
Blue chip stocks are the safest stocks traded on the stock market, but they won't make you rich any time soon.
Stock Market Hours
Do you know when the American stock exchange opens and closes for business?
After Hours Stock Trading
After hours trading can mean more volatility but also more risk.
What are dividends?
Did you know that dividends are often paid out by large well established companies and not by smaller rapidly growing companies?
How To Trade Stocks Commission Free
Trade without paying commissions with DRIPS and oneshare.com
Stock Market Risk
A true look at the stock market risk. Offers help choosing a suitable strategy for you.
Short selling stock
Did you know you can profit when a company's stock price falls by shorting stocks?
What is the difference between stocks and bonds?
What is a Stock Split?
What are stock splits and why are they done.
What is an IPO?
IPO stand for Initial Public Offering, trading them can very risk but can be rewarding.
What is the difference between common stock and preferred stock?
Common stock offers a greater opportunity for a better return, but they are riskier than preferred stock.
How to Read Stock Charts
Stock Trading Terms
A look at some of the common stock trading terms and an easy to understand explanation. Don't get lost in the jargon!
Should you invest idle cash?
Do you have spare cash and unsure whether or not to invest it?
How To Invest Your Money At a Young Age
Did you know you can probably retire earlier than most by investing conservatively from a young age?
When Does The Stock Market Open?
When Does The Stock Market Close?
Is The Stock Market Closed On Columbus Day?
Where Can I Learn About The Stock Market?
How To Start Investing In The Stock Market
How Much Money Do I Need To Start Investing?
How To Earn Money Online Without Investing In The Stock Market
How Do I Invest In The Stock Market To Grow And Preserve My Money?
How To Invest In Alternative Energy With A Green Portfolio
What Are Some Good Ways To Invest Money?
How To Invest In Canada: A Great International Investment
How To Invest An Inheritance
How To Invest One Million Dollars For Lasting Wealth
How To Invest For Your Child’s Future
How To Invest In Municipal Bonds For Steady Gains
How To Invest In Your Children’s Trust Fund
What Is The First Step To Investing For The Future?
How To Invest $150 A Month To Grow Your Nest Egg
Who Regulates The Stock Market?
How Could I Make Money In The Stock Market?
When Did The Stock Market Begin?
Can I Invest 100 Dollars In The Stock Market?
Should I Pay Off My Mortgage Instead Of Investing?
How To Invest In Gemstones
How To Start Investing In The Stock Market
How The Economy Affects The Stock Market
Best Place And When To Invest In Gold To Maximize Profit
A Beginner’s Guide To How To Invest In Preferred Stock
How To Invest In Bill Gates’ Microsoft Stock
How Do I Start To Invest My Money In The Stock Market?
What Are The Best Stocks To Invest In To Grow Wealth?
I Want To Start Investing, How Can I Buy Stocks?
Look No Further For Help Buying Stocks
Have You Always Wondered, How Are Stocks Bought And Sold?
What Are Good Stocks To Buy For My Investing Style?
What Stocks Should I Invest In To Grow My Money?
How To Figure Stop-Loss For Stocks To Realize Profits
Should I Invest In Real Estate Or Stocks?
Are There Restrictions Or Can Anyone Buy Stocks?
Learn How To Invest In Individual Stocks
Why Do People Buy Stocks In A Volitile Market?
What Are The Top 5 Stocks To Invest In?
I hope you find the articles helpful. Some of the common mistakes you need to try and avoid are:
Trading a real money account before you are ready.
Trading on emotions rather than logic.
Being greedy by not closing trades soon enough.
Thinking you can make significant amounts of money with a small account size.
Not using stop losses.
Not spending enough time choosing the right stock broker and paying too much for trading.
These are some of the mistakes made by traders, especially new traders. Armed with this knowledge, you can do your best to avoid them.
If you would like to read more about stock trading, we have a stock trading tutorial part to the site.
Or if you feel you are ready to begin buying stocks and want to find a broker, check out the discount stock brokers page.