Look for Free Professional Knowledge Take the advantage of being a customer at a good financial institution or bank. You can call in any time to the customer service and ask questions about dollar cost averaging, fund types, and asset allocation. Most of the account representative's at large financial institutions are very professional and knowledgeable, and it is always nice to have a real person explain things to you. If you are not clear with any financial term do not hesitate to ask them for further explanation until you have a clear idea about the concept. Because half knowledge is dangerous.