<prompt> Human: I mean, I dont even have the shrink wrap off yet. Basically, I just graduated college in January and Im getting all of my debts in order. Everything except my student loans should be paid off next month, and then Im planning on saving money for a year before attempting to make a go of the market. My initial plan is to save 20,000 and put half that into stocks. However I currently know NOTHING, so I have one year to learn absolutely everything I can, what Im wondering is: where is the best place to learn and study the market? Are there particular authors or books I should look for? How much risk should I begin with I.e. Are penny stocks a legitimate way to make money vs. should I go for the lower risk vs maybe halfhalf? Since Im starting out with such a small sum should I spring for an advisor? Sorry if theres a better place for this, I just hope for a secure future but am completely overwhelmed about where to start.  <response>: We dont encourage gambling on individual stocks here. That kind of nonsense is better suited for rinvesting. If you actually want to invest there is a reading list in the FAQ. 