Investing Virgin

Okay, so here lately I have been thinking about possibly investing some of my money in stocks.

Thing is, I haven't the foggiest idea of how to go about it. I went to ETRADE
to sign up for an account, but half way through the application process, I got totally worried that I might be doing something wrong. Or even getting myself into something I should not. Are there fees involved?

I guess my question is. Is it as easy as putting money into an account and buying the stock I want. I want something cut and dry. I buy it, I sell it, etc. Do I have to have a min. balance?

I'm totally clueless.

Any suggestions?