The first step to successful investing is figuring out your goals and risk tolerance – either on your own or with the help of a financial professional. Financial Navigating in the Current Economy: Ten Things to Consider Before You Make Investing DecisionsInvest Wisely: An Introduction to Mutual Funds. This publication explains the basics of mutual fund investing, how mutual funds work, what factors to consider before investing, and how to avoid common pitfalls./investor/pubs/inwsmf.htm