Before you begin trading, it is very important to learn the stock market basics. Like many, when I began trading I didnt 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.

A guide to finding the right stock broker for your trading. Looks at how to avoid the con men in suits!

This article looks at what stock trading is and how buying and sell stocks takes place.

Do stock trading commissions and fees really make that much difference to your bottom line when trading?

Earn higher returns with growth stocks, but take on extra risk.

Blue chip stocks are the safest stocks traded on the stock market, but they wont make you rich any time soon.

Learn the difference between these two financial instruments.

What are stock splits and why are they done.

IPO stand for Initial Public Offering, trading them can very risk but can be rewarding.

Common stock offers a greater opportunity for a better return, but they are riskier than preferred stock.

Learning to read stock charts correctly is an important aspect of trading. Find out how to correctly read stock charts

A look at some of the common stock trading terms and an easy to understand explanation. Dont get lost in the jargon!

Do you have spare cash and unsure whether or not to invest it?

Did you know you can probably retire earlier than most by investing conservatively from a young age?

Operating hours for the worlds stock exchanges.

Thinking of going green? diversify your investments with green stocks

Top ways you can invest your money for a better financial future.

Canada is home to some of the best investments around. Find out how to invest in Canadian stocks

Receiving a financial windfall can be a mixed blessing. Learn how to invest and grow your inheritance.

Your million dollars can last a lifetime if you plan wisely. Understand how to invest your million dollars for a comfortable financial future

Your children are your number one priority. Give them the gift of financial freedom by investing for their future

Looking to steadily grow your money while collecting steady returns? You may want to consider Municipal Bonds

If you are looking to leave your children a lasting financial legacy, learn how to invest in their trust fund.

Dont know where to start investing? Where to start on your journy to financial freedom.

Who says you need a lot of money to invest? Learn how you can invest just $150 a month and achieve your goals.

Learn who regulates and oversees the equity markets.

The pros and cons of investing in stocks versus real estate

Who can buy stocks? Find out what the restrictions are for purchasing securities.

Investing in individual stocks can be a breeze if you know what steps to take before you invest.

What smart investors know about a volatile market.

Top five stocks for your investment portfolio.

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.