How should a beginner start investing

Step 3: Open the account and put money in it

The nuts and bolts of this step aren't too complicated, but you do still have some decisions to make.

Decision: Where to open your account? If you're opening a 401(k) then this part's easy: You'll open it through work, with whatever company is handling your employer's 401(k).

With an IRA or brokerage account, you'll need to choose a financial institution to open your account with. (Here's how to open an account if you choose to go with Fidelity.)

Decision: How much money to invest? With a 401(k), you contribute through payroll deductions, meaning the money is taken out of your paycheck automatically.

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You decide how much of your pay to contribute. If your employer offers matching contributions, consider investing at least enough to capture the full amount of the match. For example, if your employer offers a dollar-for-dollar match up to 3%, you would contribute 3% to take full advantage.

If you're opening an IRA or brokerage account, you can start by depositing a chunk of money, and then add to that when

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