In nontechnical, easy-to-follow terms, this text seeks to thoroughly demystify the options markets, distinguishing the imagined risks from the real ones, and arming investors with the facts they need to make informed decisions. This guide to understanding options includes such new material as references to online sites relevant to options investors; information on how to pick brokerage firms; detailed explanations of risk; bailout points; how to pick stocks for options investing; and how put options can enhance portfolio returns. This fifth edition also contains examples, updated charts, and timely additions to reflect important changes in the market.