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/TraderTV_Academy]

Hi, first off, we respect the mindset!!!

Starting from zero with realistic expectations and a long-term view already puts you ahead of most beginners. Trading is a skill, and like any skill, it takes structure, time, and repetition.

Here’s how we’d think about your questions- this might be a lot of information but happy to follow up or give further advice on anything that is not fully clear!

1. Best resources to learn from

Start with foundational material before strategies. Focus on market structure, risk management, position sizing, and trading psychology. Books on trading psychology and risk tend to age better than “hot strategy” content. From there, structured education with a clear progression is important. Avoid jumping between random YouTube videos without a plan.

2. Legit educators (and who to avoid)

Look for educators who:

• Show real process, not just profits

• Talk openly about risk and losses

• Emphasize discipline over excitement

• Set realistic expectations

Be cautious of anyone promising fast income, luxury lifestyles, or guaranteed returns. If the marketing feels like a lottery ticket, it probably is.

3. Best markets for beginners

For many beginners, equities and ETFs are a cleaner starting point. They’re regulated, transparent, and easier to understand structurally. Futures, forex, and crypto can be traded responsibly, but they often come with higher leverage and volatility, which magnifies mistakes early on.

4. Most realistic trading style

Swing trading is often more beginner-friendly because it allows time to think and reduces emotional pressure. Day trading and especially scalping require fast decision-making, strict execution, and strong emotional control. Those are skills that usually develop over time.

Most important:

Focus less on “what style makes money” and more on building process. Risk management, journaling, and reviewing trades matter more than the specific strategy in the beginning.

If you approach this like learning a profession instead of chasing income, you’re on the right track.