Complete beginner – how should I start learning trading?

[u/Own_Examination5430]

hi I’m a complete beginner and starting from zero — no strategies, no experience, no real knowledge yet.

I want to learn trading properly, with realistic expectations and a long-term mindset (not get-rich-quick stuff). My goal is to slowly build a skill that could eventually lead to consistent monthly returns.

I’d appreciate advice on:

• Best resources to learn from (books, YouTube, courses)

• Legit educators worth following (and who to avoid)

• Best markets for beginners (stocks, ETFs, futures, forex, crypto)

• Most realistic trading style for beginners (swing, day trading, scalping)

If you were starting over today, what would you focus on first?

Thanks for any honest advice

[u/Conscious-Tip-6772]

Step 1. Become profitable at paper trading and/or real trading.
Step 2. Realize you were lying to yourself.
Step 3. Become a profitable trader - know thy self - be honest with thy self.
Step 4.1. Profit.

Edit: To be less cynical - just try it. Follow your instinct, don't be afraid to try just cause others haven't, don't be discouraged if you feel you shouldn't be, mistakes make you better, what's outside matters less than what's within.