A revised new edition of the easy-to-read, illustrated guide to the complex world of options investing Investing in options is potentially very lucrative, but many shy away from it because of its complexity and the perception of high risk. In non-technical terms, this helpfully illustrated guide demystifies the options markets, distinguishes the imagined risks from the real ones, and arms investors with the facts they need to make informed, profitable decisions. Carefully weaving examples, charts, and key points into the text, the book gives readers the skills to master the complex world of options, and also covers all the fundamental jargon and concepts. Updated to include commentary on the current market and the growing importance of options as an investment vehicle Another new addition to the successful "Getting Started In" series by Michael C. Thomsett The perfect introductory guide to options for investors at any level of experience For anyone who wants to invest in options but needs a straightforward and easy-to-read guide to the subject in order to do so, Getting Started in Options is a must-read
Acknowledgments vii Element Key ix Introduction xi Chapter 1: Calls and Puts: Defining the Field of Play 1 The Call Option 12 The Put Option 30 Option Valuation 36 Chapter 2: Opening and Tracking: How It All Works 51 A Note on the Expiration Cycle 56 Opening and Closing Option Trades 58 Calculating the Rate of Return for Sellers 63 Chapter 3: Buying Calls: Maximizing the Rosy View 73 Understanding the Limited Life of the Call 74 Judging the Call 79 Call Buying Strategies 84 Defining Profit Zones 97 Chapter 4: Buying Puts: The Positive Side of Pessimism 107 The Limited Life of the Put 109 Judging the Put 116 Put Buying Strategies 124 Defining Profit Zones 134 Chapter 5: Selling Calls: Conservative and Profitable 141 Selling Uncovered Calls 144 Selling Covered Calls 158 Calculating Rate of Return 165 Chapter 6: Selling Puts: The Overlooked Strategy 173 Analyzing Stock Values 177 Evaluating Risks 180 Put Strategies 181 Chapter 7: Closing Positions: Cover, Close, Exercise or Roll 199 Defining Possible Outcomes of Closing Options 199 Exercising the Option 201 Timing the Decision 209 Avoiding Exercise 214 Chapter 8: Paper Trading: A Test Run of the Theory 231 The Case for Paper Trading 233 Two Sites Worth Checking 236 Proceeding with Paper-Trading Plan 239 Chapter 9: Calculating the Return: A Complex Aspect to Options 243 Finding a Realistic Method 244 Annualizing Models and Guidelines 246 An Overview of Basic Calculation for Calls 250 Anticipating the Likely Return 255 Glossary 263 Recommended Reading 279 About the Author 281 Index 283