It is possible to trade and invest in stocks without stock analysis software. If you are having success working this way then congratulations! You don’t need to read any further. If, however, you want to improve your performance and do more than dabble in investments you should keep reading. Stock analysis software can help you take your investing to the next level. Regardless of your investing goals you can find stock market analysis software that can help you trade smarter and faster. And in the long run, make more money. After all, isn’t that what it’s all about?

Stock analysis software is designed to take large amounts of data and allow you to graphically view trends, set up scenarios, and process what-ifs. These types of analysis help you make your decisions about how you want to invest your money. The best analysis programs allow you to set your own criteria for how you’d like to use the data. That means you are not locked into viewing the investing world the way some other expert sees it. You’ll need to procure the data to populate your database but the engine that drives the program is what you are investing in.

You have plenty of options when it comes to the actual stock charting software. From free shareware programs to Excel add-ons to full blown professional stock market analysis software you can find it. The trick is deciding what type of analysis program will work best for you. The industry standard is Metastock. While this package does have its critics it has been the market leader for as long as it has been on the market. Most other programs are designed to work like it does and its data format is considered the standard.

As you are reviewing your options and thinking about what you need consider the types of data you want to monitor. Do you need to look at a variety of indicators for a number of different segments (for example, stocks, bonds, Forex, options, etc.)? Do you need to monitor multiple geographic markets? Are you planning to rely primarily on your own analyses or do you want to have preloaded expert scenarios? These factors are important.

You definitely want to take the stock analysis software you are considering for a test drive. For some analysis programs you’ll be able to tell right away whether or not it’s right for you. For others it may take a little more research. Once you have narrowed down you list of options to something that is manageable you can start to look at what features are included and determine if those are things you need. You’ll also do well to consider the track record of the company that is providing the stock analysis software. While there are no guarantees, you want to minimize the possibility that your developer will be out of business when you need them to be there for you.

With a little research and dedication you’ll be able to find a stock analysis charting package that suits your needs. You’ll be running sophisticated analysis in no time at all. In the long run, you’ll be a better trader or investor.