(NewsNation) — Time is money, and money is investable.

One investment strategy is to purchase a mutual fund.

What is a mutual fund?

A mutual fund is an investment approach where you combine your money with that of other investors to purchase stocks, bonds, and other financial instruments, as explained by Fidelity Investments.

Those who buy into a mutual fund own a portion of the fund’s assets. If you sell a security in which the mutual fund has invested at a price higher than what you initially paid, you earn a profit known as a net capital gain.

You can also earn money from mutual funds when a security pays interest or dividends. A security is a broad term for assets that hold monetary value.

How to invest in a mutual fund

To begin investing in a mutual fund, you must first establish an online brokerage account. Popular financial service companies that offer management of these accounts include Fidelity Investments, Vanguard, Charles Schwab, and Ally Invest.

Then, you’ll need to deposit money into your account to be able to purchase a mutual fund.

Research the funds to ensure they align with your goals, considering the fund’s performance and risks.

Track your portfolio and adjust your strategy as needed.

Top tips for investing in a mutual fund

1. Does the mutual fund align with my long-term financial goals? During the research stage, identify your goals and ask yourself if what you’re about to invest in makes sense for you. Experts at Bankrate suggest beginners invest in a low-cost S&P 500 index fund.
2. What is this fund’s long-term performance? You’re investing because you want to gain in the long run. Take the fund’s past performance into account to help determine whether its success will continue.
3. What are the fees associated with buying a share in a fund? “Remember that if two funds have the same investment performance, the one with the lower fees will leave their investors better off,” Bankrate said.
4. Don’t forget about tax season. “Consider the fund’s tax-efficiency and whether you’re going to hold it in a tax-advantaged account — like your 401(k) — or not,” according to Charles Schwab, a financial services company.