Step-by-Step Guide to Equity Market Trading for Beginners
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How to Trade in the Equity Market: A Step-by-Step Beginner’s Guide

Written by Jainam Customer Service Jainam Customer Service

Last Updated on: July 31, 2025

Equity Market Trading

Entering the equity market for the first time can feel overwhelming, but with the right steps, it becomes a powerful way to build long-term wealth or generate short-term income. Whether you’re looking to create a passive income stream or actively participate in the ups and downs of the market, this guide is for you.

This step-by-step tutorial will help you understand how to trade in equity market in India. We’ll cover the basics of equity trading for beginners, explain how to open your account, and guide you on how to place your first trade.

Thanks to online tools, mobile apps, and brokers like Jainam Broking, getting started is easier than ever. If you’re ready to explore the stock market, learn new skills, and grow your money, this is the place to begin.

What Is Equity Trading?

Equity trading refers to the buying and selling of shares in publicly listed companies. These shares are traded on stock exchanges such as the NSE and BSE in India. When you purchase a company’s stock, you become a partial owner, with the right to benefit from its growth and profits.

There are two main approaches to equity trading:

  • Long-term investing: Buying stocks and holding them for years.
  • Short-term trading: Taking advantage of price fluctuations in days or weeks.

Many beginners ask about the difference between trading and investing. While investing focuses on long-term wealth creation, trading is more short-term and driven by price momentum and timing.

Equity trading can be done online through platforms provided by SEBI-registered brokers. You don’t need to go to a stock exchange physically—everything is digital.

By understanding what is trading on equity, you open the door to a world of opportunity—but also risk. That’s why it’s important to learn, practice, and start with a clear plan.

How Equity Trading Works in India

In India, the equity market is regulated by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI). This ensures fair trading practices and protects investors. If you want to learn how equity trading works, it starts with two key accounts:

  1. Demat Account: Stores your shares electronically.
  2. Trading Account: Allows you to buy or sell shares through an online platform.

Once your accounts are set up, you can use your broker’s app or website to start trading. You’ll place orders like “Buy 10 shares of Infosys at ₹1,400”, and these orders will go through the exchange (NSE or BSE) for execution.

The entire process—from placing the order to settlement—is now digital and usually takes T+1 day (trade day + 1 working day) to complete.

You can also use a Virtual Trading Platform to practice with dummy money before investing real funds. This is a safe way for equity trading for beginners to build confidence.

Understanding how equity trading works in India is your first step toward becoming a confident, independent trader.

How Equity Trading Works in India scaled

How to Start Equity Trading in India: Step-by-Step Guide

Starting your journey in the equity market is easier than ever. Here’s a detailed, beginner-friendly guide to show you exactly how to start equity trading in India.

Step 1 – Understand the Basics of Stocks & Equity

Before you start trading, it’s essential to understand what you’re investing in. A stock, or equity share, represents ownership in a company. If you buy 10 shares of a company, you own a small piece of it.

Learn terms like market capitalization, stock price, P/E ratio, dividends, and volatility. Also, read about the benefits of equity share capital, such as potential capital appreciation and voting rights in some cases.

You can explore educational content offered by brokers like Jainam or even join online courses. Having a strong foundation reduces emotional decision-making and helps you make better trades.

For equity trading for beginners, mastering the basics provides the confidence to navigate the markets effectively.

Step 2 – Choose a SEBI-Registered Broker 

You can only trade in the Indian equity market through a SEBI-registered broker. Your choice of broker affects your trading costs, speed, tools, and customer support.

Look for a broker that offers:

  • Low brokerage fees
  • A user-friendly equity trading app India
  • Good customer support
  • Educational resources
  • Research reports and real-time data

Jainam Broking is a reliable SEBI-registered broker trusted by thousands of Indian investors. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned trader, Jainam provides the right tools and support.

Choosing the right broker is the first smart step in learning how to trade in equity market with ease and safety.

Step 3 – Open a Demat & Trading Account

To begin trading, you need to open Demat account and a trading account. These two accounts work together your Demat account holds the shares you buy, while your trading account helps you place buy/sell orders.

The account opening process is 100% online with Jainam. You just need:

  • PAN Card
  • Aadhaar Card
  • Bank account details
  • A selfie for verification

Some brokers charge for account opening or annual maintenance, but Jainam offers zero AMC for select plans ideal for equity trading for beginners.

Once your documents are verified, your account is activated in 1–2 business days. After that, you can start trading right away.

This step is crucial. Without a Demat and trading account, you cannot access the equity market in India.

Step 4 – Complete KYC Process

To ensure security and regulatory compliance, all traders must complete the Know Your Customer (KYC) process. This step verifies your identity and protects you from fraud.

The KYC process includes uploading:

  • PAN and Aadhaar
  • Bank proof (passbook or cancelled cheque)
  • Signature photo
  • Income proof (for F&O or intraday trading)

Don’t worry, this process is simple and fully online. Most brokers like Jainam offer guided forms and quick approval.

KYC is mandatory for all Indian residents who wish to trade or invest. Once completed, your account will become fully functional for equity, mutual funds, and other investment segments.

By completing KYC, you’re one step closer to understanding how to start equity trading in India.

Step 5 – Learn to Use a Trading Platform

After your account is set up, it’s time to explore your broker’s trading platform. This could be a mobile app, web platform, or desktop terminal. Learning to navigate this tool is vital before placing real trades.

Most platforms offer:

  • Real-time stock data
  • Order placement (market, limit, stop-loss)
  • Portfolio tracking
  • Technical charts and research tools

Jainam’s equity trading platform in India is designed for beginners, with simple navigation, alerts, and insights to help you make better decisions.

If you’re nervous, use a Virtual Trading Platform to practice trading with dummy funds. It’s a safe way to build confidence without risking real money.

This step is especially helpful for anyone who wants a smooth start in the equity market trading for beginners.

Step 6 – Place Your First Equity Trade

Now that you’re ready, it’s time to place your first trade! Here’s how:

  1. Log in to your trading platform.
  2. Search for a company (e.g., TCS, Infosys).
  3. Choose “Buy,” enter the quantity.
  4. Select the type of order (Market or Limit).
  5. Confirm and place the order.

Once the trade is executed, you’ll see the stock in your Demat account by the next day. That’s how equity market trading works!

For your first few trades, avoid high-risk stocks. Stick to known, stable companies and observe their performance. You can track your gains/losses directly on the platform.

Congratulations! You’ve just taken your first step toward learning how to trade in equity market successfully.

How to Start Equity Trading in India Step by Step Guide 2 scaled

How to Trade in Equity Market in India for Beginners

For anyone new to the stock market, learning how to trade in equity market in India for beginners means starting small and staying informed. Focus on consistency, not speed, and avoid risky moves early on.

Start Small, Avoid Margin Initially

One of the best stock market tips for beginners is to invest small amounts. Choose stable stocks and avoid margin trading, which involves borrowing money—it increases your risk and potential losses.

Observe how the equity market reacts to news, earnings reports, and global trends. This learning phase builds a strong foundation before making larger investments.

Understand Market Orders vs Limit Orders

While placing trades, you’ll use either:

  • Market Orders: Instant execution at the current price.
  • Limit Orders: Executes only at your chosen price.

For beginners, limit orders offer better control, especially in volatile markets. Practicing on a virtual trading platform helps you understand how equity trading works in real-time.

Follow Market News & Trends

The equity market is sensitive to company news, global events, and government policies. Following reliable news sources and using tools offered by brokers like Jainam helps you make informed decisions.

Avoid random tips—focus on facts and sentiment. Staying updated is a proven tactic in equity trading for beginners, especially when building your first portfolio.

Risks Involved in Equity Trading

While trading can be profitable, it comes with risks. Understanding them is essential for anyone learning how to trade in equity market.

Market Volatility & Capital Loss

Share prices can change quickly, leading to potential losses. Many beginners chase trends and buy high, only to sell low price. Stick to strong, stable companies while you’re learning.

Emotional Trading & Overtrading

Emotions often lead to overtrading. Fear triggers panic selling, while greed prompts impulsive buying. Stick to your strategy and avoid trading too frequently, especially for equity market trading for beginners.

Lack of Research or Strategy

Jumping into trades without proper research is risky. You need a reason like strong financials or market trends before buying any stock. Use your broker’s insights and research tools to trade smart.

Understanding these risks isn’t meant to discourage you it prepares you to trade with discipline and clarity.

Equity Market vs Other Types of Markets

Many new traders ask, “Is equity market trading the right fit for me?” To answer that, it’s useful to compare it with other popular investment options.

Equity vs Derivatives

Equity trading involves buying actual shares. You become a partial owner of the company and benefit from its growth.

Derivatives (like Futures & Options) are contracts that derive their value from underlying assets. They’re high-risk, complex instruments that may not be suitable for beginners.

If you’re learning how to start equity trading in India, it’s better to begin with equity rather than derivatives. It’s simpler, safer, and provides a good foundation.

Equity Market vs Other Types of Markets 1 scaled

Equity vs Derivatives

FeatureEquity TradingDerivatives Trading
DefinitionBuying and selling actual shares of companiesTrading contracts based on the price of assets
OwnershipYes – you become a shareholderNo – you don’t own the underlying asset
ComplexityLow to MediumHigh (requires knowledge of futures, options)
Risk LevelModerateHigh (involves leverage and expiry dates)
Time HorizonShort to Long-termTypically short-term
RegulatorSEBISEBI
SuitabilityEquity trading for beginners and investorsAdvanced traders with experience

Equity vs Mutual Funds

Mutual funds are ideal for passive investors. You invest money, and a fund manager handles everything from selecting stocks to managing risk.

With equity trading, you control everything. You choose the stock, the timing, and the quantity. It’s active, dynamic, and requires involvement.

If you’re hands-on and want to learn market behavior, equity trading is the way to go. If you want long-term exposure without daily decisions, mutual funds might be better.

Understanding the difference between trading and investing helps you decide which route suits your goals and risk appetite.

Equity vs Mutual Funds scaled

Equity vs Mutual Funds

FeatureEquity TradingMutual Funds
ManagementSelf-managed (you decide what to buy/sell)Professionally managed (fund manager decides)
ControlFull control over each tradeNo control over individual stock selection
Minimum InvestmentFlexible – can start with a few hundred rupeesMinimum typically ₹500–₹1,000 (SIP)
Research RequiredYes – requires stock and market analysisMinimal – the manager does research
Risk LevelMedium to High (depends on choices)Low to Medium (depending on fund type)
FeesBrokerage & transaction feesFund management & expense ratio
Ideal ForActive traders and learnersPassive investors looking for diversification

Conclusion

Learning how to trade in equity market is one of the most empowering financial steps you can take. With the right guidance, tools, and mindset, anyone from college students to working professionals can start building wealth.

This guide has provided you with the basics of equity trading for beginners, including how to set up your account, tips to avoid common mistakes, and a comparison of the equity market to other options.

Ready to begin? Don’t wait for the perfect moment.

Open Free Demat Account and start your journey today.

Let your trading experience begin step by step, trade by trade.

FAQs

Q. What is the minimum amount to start trading in equity market?
You can begin with as little as ₹100, depending on the stock price. Many people start with ₹5,000 to ₹10,000 to build a small portfolio.

Q. Can I trade in equity without a broker?
No. You must use a SEBI-registered broker to access the equity market. Brokers like Jainam help you with account setup, trading tools, and support.

Q. Which is the best platform for equity trading in India?
The best platform for equity trading offers speed, simplicity, research tools, and low costs. Jainam’s platform checks all these boxes for both beginners and pros.

Q. Is equity trading good for beginners?
Yes if done with a clear plan, small capital, and consistent learning. Use demo accounts and educational resources to practice before going live.

Q. How much profit can I make in equity market?
There’s no fixed number. Some traders earn 10–20% annually, others more or less. Your profit depends on the stock selection, timing, and strategy.

Q. What do I need to start equity trading?
All you need is a PAN, Aadhaar, bank account, and to open a Demat account with a broker like Jainam. The rest is just a few clicks away.

Disclaimer

The opinions and investment advice shared by financial experts on this platform are solely their own and do not represent the views of the website or its management. We strongly recommend consulting with certified professionals before making any investment decisions.

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