How to invest

Learn the basics of investing, how you can start, and guiding principles that can help you along the way.

Boat diagram illustration Boat diagram illustration Boat diagram illustration

Investing basics

New to investing? Find answers to frequently asked questions.

Start your investing journey

  • Do it yourself

    Illustration of a compass and map

    Create and monitor a portfolio, and get help any time you need it. 

  • Let a robo-advisor help do it for you

    Illustration of a boat control center

    Simplify the process of investing. Robo-advisors are online services that provide automated portfolios based on your goals and risk tolerance, using the latest technology and expertise from investment professionals.

7 guiding principles

As an investor, you need guiding principles to help you navigate changing markets and different financial decisions in your life journey. Schwab's Investing Principles are seven clear steps we believe are foundational to successful investing. 

Life vest and binoculars illustration

Take the next step.

We can help.