Understand the Stock Market

FinanceBeginnerHome

90 minutes

5 steps

·Beginner

After 90 min: Know how stocks work and why people invest

What you need

notebookinternet access

The 90-Minute Plan

Learn the Basics0–15 min

Watch a 10-minute explainer on what stocks are. Understand that a stock is ownership in a company.

See Real Examples15–35 min

Look up 3 companies you know (Apple, Nike, Coca-Cola) on Yahoo Finance. Note their stock price and market cap.

Explore Market Patterns35–55 min

Read about bull vs bear markets. Understand that stock prices rise and fall based on company performance and market sentiment.

Calculate Dividends55–75 min

Find a dividend-paying stock. Calculate how much dividend income you'd earn on a $1000 investment.

Create Your Research Plan75–90 min

Write down 3 companies you'd like to research further and what metrics you'll track.

Pro Tip

Start by investing in index funds—they're less risky than individual stocks.

90 min·5 steps

FinanceBeginner

After 90 min: Start investing with $100+ in your first brokerage account

3,600

see the plan

90 min·5 steps

FinanceIntermediate

After 90 min: You'll understand asset allocation and create a portfolio aligned with your timeline and risk.

9,800

see the plan

90 min·5 steps

FinanceBeginner

After 90 min: Create a realistic monthly budget and commit to it

5,400

see the plan

90 min·5 steps

FinanceBeginner

After 90 min: Launch your first side project and earn $100+ monthly

4,100

see the plan