First and foremost you should be having an Idea as to what stocks,funds and shares are and why are they invested upon.If you are still unclear ,take up the help of a CA (Chartered accountant) or a financial adviser.Clear your basics first.Secondly the performance or output of a fund/stock anyone invests in, depends on the psychology of the fund manager.So, given a choice always choose the ones with a good and consistent track record.Always remember investments are made to garner good dividends,so be sure where ever you are investing ,the dividends should come from.Even if the stock you are investing upon provides you slow but secured dividends you should go for it.There are many stocks in the market that provides you with high capital gains ,but then they are extremely risky.So you being an amateur should try avoiding that.Learn the game first and then play it.

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Best Mutual Funds

That's a nice helper for new traders that want's to join the game!