10 tricks for better investing

Why do smart people do such stupid things with their money? Because, research shows, financial decisions are driven by feelings. Here's how to keep your impulses in check.

Take the global view
View Keep calm by using a spreadsheet that emphasizes your total net worth, not the changes in each holding. Before you buy a stock or mutual fund, check whether it overlaps what you already own - try the Instant X-Ray tool at Morningstar.com.
Adapted from Jason Zweig's new book, Your Money and Your Brain: How the New Science of Neuroeconomics Can Help Make You Rich, available from Simon & Schuster.
Last updated January 02 2008: 8:29 AM ET

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