In just 36 pages, this handbook turns “I don’t know where to start” into a concrete action plan—demystifying market lingo, showcasing index‑fund simplicity, and giving plug‑and‑play starter portfolios that grow right alongside the reader’s confidence.
 
How the Guide Is Organized
 
Section What you’ll learn
Introduction Why investing early matters and how compound growth beats inflation ​
Understanding Index Funds How index funds work, their pros & cons, and choosing one for a Roth IRA ​
20‑Term Beginner Glossary Plain‑English definitions of stocks, bonds, ETFs, asset allocation, DCA, etc. ​
Sample Starter Portfolios Step‑by‑step allocations for investing $100, $500, and $1 000 with rationales ​
Conclusion Long‑term mindset tips, automation advice, and next‑step checklist ​
Legal Notice Standard disclaimer and copyright info ​
Stand‑Out Features
Visuals & Charts – Bar‑chart cover art, Risk/Return graphic on page 20, and a Roth IRA Growth curve on page 9 make concepts intuitive. ​
 
Step‑by‑step portfolio demos – Clear tables show exactly where each dollar goes at the $100, $500, and $1 000 levels. ​
 
Action templates – Worksheets for listing debts, setting goals, and tracking asset allocation help readers move from theory to practice.