I'd at least look into some of the funds, like the American Groth fund is comprised of all the blue chip stocks like Coke, Pepsi, and all the name brand products that you know. the nice thing about owing a fund is that if there is a huge hit to an individual stock you won't feel the brunt. the fund is spread so it won't be such a negative impact. its all about risk vs reward, the lower the risk the lower reward and vice verca. wall street journal, msn money, motley fool, there are so many resources online to help with educating yourself before you make an investment.