Should a first-time investor opt for a direct plan?

There are some platforms like Invezta and Clearfunds which allow you to invest in direct plans and they also provide advisory services. Can a beginner opt for direct plans with these platforms?
--Rokesh Lalith Kumar

Joydeep Sen, Founder, wiseinvestor.in responds:

Investing in direct plans is not a matter of first time, but about your understanding, awareness, and the amount of time you can devote towards research is what matters. It is better to interact with a human advisor for better clarity than algo-driven websites. If you are an aware investor and can spend enough time to research about your investments, then you can opt for robo advisors.