You can learn by buying stocks virtually at http://www.strategyard.com. It is a great practice and best way to learn. Make different strategies(portfolios). For example, buy stocks with upcoming earning reports and read forums and see what the speculation is. if you get a strong feeling, buy it online with the fake money and see how it does. You can try different strategies and see which works best. There is guide section in the website which gives you some ideas. Let me know if you have more questions.