Im an amateur and need istance in investing?

im inexperienced in this aspect and im really trying to learn, i would like to invest in stocks, i already have a couple bonds, just a savings and an i bond so far.. but i want to expand my horizons a little bit... where do i start, what to invest, how much and how long. ive read other q's and answers but most responses are from yrs ago... and the economy isnt that great right now.. any suggestions on what to invest in..companys etc.. should i get a broker or do i have to have one?