Stock mkt can never be timed, that's why u do SIP. Lump sum has its own risks. ofc if ur just starting out, then ur initial entry can be higher value.
But if market corrects 20%, don't panic and get out, do SIP and average down. Eventually mkt has to rally, if it doesn't, consider the world doomed
If ur putting money in MF, aim for Medium to Long term.
Short term only if u knw what ur doing
Go to MFU India website, fill the form, there is a complete online option which wasn't there before.
I haven't seen a broker offering direct plans for free. Incase I'm wrong, do inform me.
Plz don't look at past performance alone, look at the portfolio and ur risk appetite.
If ur amount is huge, consider expense ratio for AMC's that have very similar product.