Index fund or sit idle

[Jerome Graham]

While I am studying up on stocks and the stock market should I just let my cash sit idle or should I throw it in an index fund? Also, how long does it usually take to get comfortable investing? I've read through a couple of tutorials at morningstar.com and fool.com and have read Beating the Street. I plan on picking up the intelligent investor soon. Sorry to start another "how do i get started in investing" thread.

Thanks

[ColdCaller]

Put it in a savings account like ING Direct or Emigrant Direct while you do research.

[shark6]

[ QUOTE ]
Put it in a savings account like ING Direct or Emigrant Direct while you do research.

[/ QUOTE ]

Then when you are ready to put it in the market do it slowly over several months at least.

[mikeyKay]

[ QUOTE ]
Put it in a savings account like ING Direct or Emigrant Direct while you do research.

[/ QUOTE ]

I'm thinking of putting my money in a tax efficient vanguard money market account. any reason why you guys like ING Direct or Emigrant Direct more?

-mike