This is adapted from http://www.sec.gov/investor/pubs/roadmap.htm

Get the Facts: The SEC's Roadmap to Investing and Saving
* Define Your Goals
* Make a Financial Plan
* Determine Your Risk Tolerance
* Investment Products: Your Choices
* Pick a Financial Professional
* Avoid Problems
* The Real Journey Begins...

Welcome to the SEC's Roadmap to saving and investing, which is brought to you by the Office of Investor Education and Assistance of the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission.

Knowing how to secure your financial well-being is one of the most important things you’ll ever need in life. You don’t have to be a genius to do it. You just need to know a few basics, form a plan, and be ready to stick to it. No matter how much or little money you have, the important thing is to educate yourself about your opportunities.