In investment, the difference between outperforming or underperforming the market may turn out to be a few fractions of a percentage point. Drawing from over thirty years in teaching, researching, and practicing investment fundamentals, Ben Branch argues that investment is a game worth playing. The key to being on the winning side is to understand the basic principles of investing - what it is and how it works - before making any decisions. In this highly practical, non-technical guide, the author provides the building blocks of a multi-dimensional investing approach. First, he reviews the principle of compound interest, the foundation of all investment strategy and performance. Then, he introduces the reader to stocks, bonds, options, mutual funds, real estate, futures, and all the other elements of the market. In addition to covering well-known investments in detail, he explains lesser-known opportunities, such as bankruptcies and takeovers. Special topics include the effects of macroeconomic trends and the subtleties of timing for maximum advantage. He debunks popular myths and misconceptions and shows how to avoid mistakes in order to invest wisely. An extensive glossary, definitions and examples, and lists of "dos" and "don'ts" will make this book a handy resource for the novice or experienced investor looking to take their game to the next level.