I want to say buy low sell high.....
but I won't ;-)
Very simply the way I started (but I am no longer a player) is to read the papers, look at the main shares and see how there is a pattern between trading figures / news /legislation etc and share prices.Start by concentrating n one comany eg Marks & Spencers is a good example at the moment.
Then when you think you can see patterns emerging, start buying them BUT ONLY ON PAPER. after a period of time (6 months minimum) see what you have made on buying and selling.
I made a lot of money but no longer play. My brother also made a lot more than me - even went into a garage and purchased a �30k sports car for cash) but he also lost it all. Ended up losing his house and living in a caravan.
You can make a lot of money / you can lose a lot of money. If you want safety, put the money into a stocks and shares ISA or similar.
DO NOT RUSH if you are going to start trading.