Yes. You can cut taxes by buying a total market index fund and total bond bund in those proportions. Index funds have minimal selling (taxed). You just put your periodic contribution in whichever fundi s falling behind to maintain the balance.
Actually, I'd generally recommend starting with Personal Finance for Dummies by Eric Tyson. The beginning investor usually needs to assess his bigger picture first and that's what that book's about. It's also got excellent sections on mutual funds, finding a financial planner if necessary, etc.
mscsrrr.com , as Sandra L. pointed out at one point, start by getting a handle on the meaning of "asset allocation." See the links at
In the future, giving your age, debts, current income and job prospects, to name a few parameters, would be helpful. Next people will want to know if you have a 401(k) through your employer, have started an IRA, are married, have kids, have insurance, etc. These are important issues to explore so as to achieve financial security and so peace of mind.
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