At the very outset, I would like to shun a misconception prevailing in some quarters that investment in shares is akin to gambling. It may be partly true in the case of futures and options. One may deal in shares as an investor or a trader. Therefore, a basic prerequisite for playing in the stock market is to be sure to recognise yourself as an Investor or a Trader! A trader may be a day trader, regular trader, or a trader in the future and options. Out of these, trading in any form, especially in futures and options, is quite akin to speculation (say like gambling) and highly risky, and only a trained and skilled trader might make a profit. Day trading or trading in Futures and Options is a different ball game altogether, requiring a different skill set than investing. Nevertheless, a general understanding and belief of experts are that in trading, especially in future and options trading, almost eighty per cent of people suffer losses. In trading, especially in future and options, the element of speculation, as also the risk to gain ratio is high akin to gambling. However, investing with a long-term, 2-3 years perspective, most often proves rewarding, notwithstanding that some risk is always there, depending upon market and financial situation within and outside the country. Thus, to invest with due diligence, understanding (based on some research), patience and confidence, is sure to prove rewarding, with average returns definitely better than bank Fixed Deposits (FDRs), etc.