I've just graduated form the Uni. where I've done some research on daytrading activities. I feel this is the best time to give this a try as the bear market seemed partially over for now. Few questions - what is the best way for a novice like me to make a start ... and ... what is the minimum capital that I need to start - to know if it's within my reach.

Paul,

I have met several unfortunates who have lost money that they did not already own, buying or selling the stock market. None were happy bunnies, nor would I be. It's great taking risks and winning, but if you lose, it's a very uncomfortable feeling, and if you have borrowed the money you've not got just yourself to answer to. If you are single and have no children, there's still the bank/parent/sibling or whoever else leant you the money and what about loss of confidence. I know you can get out if you have a stop loss but the whole point of buying shares or shorting is that you have are confident about your reasons for action. I have not yet met anyone who bought shares of shorted in the hope of losing money.

Angi

"The likelyhood of you losing all your money, unless you are stupid, are pretty remote."
As the saying goes "the trend is your friend" LOL

How many is remote?Plenty have. Plenty will.