Do you own stocks or stock funds? If the answer is yes, this tutorial can help you develop a portfolio that makes sense for you.

If the answer is no, this planning center has the information and advice you need to confidently place your first buy order.

• Getting Started
  Stocks can be volatile, but they have historically returned more than any other investment.
  
  
• Keep an Eye on Earnings
  his is the bottom line, profits. Plus, how share prices and earnings can help you compare stocks.
  
  
• Check Key Numbers
  Book value, return on equity, total return and other indicators can help you zero in on quality stocks.
  
  
• Establish Your Game Plan
  A personalized approach and investing at regular intervals are the best ways to build wealth.
  
  
• Avoid Common Errors
  One requirement for successful investing is keeping mistakes to a minimum. These eight mistakes recur with unnecessary frequency.
  
  
• Recruit the Right Broker
  How much advice do you need -- and how much are you willing to pay for it?
  
  
  • Full-Service Brokers
  • Discount or Online Brokers

MORE: Kiplinger.com | The Basics of Money | Getting Started

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