Where should I invest a lump sum in today’s market?

I’m planning to invest a lump sum and a bit confused about where to put it right now. Should I go with mutual funds, ETFs, or direct stocks considering current market conditions?

I’m considering 3 options right now:

• Mutual Funds (for diversification and less active management)
• ETFs (for lower costs and flexibility)
• Direct Stocks (for potentially higher returns, but higher risk too)

My investment horizon is long term, and I’m okay with moderate risk, but I don’t want to make a rushed decision just because I have cash sitting idle.

For those who have invested lump sums before, what worked best for you? Also, what are some common mistakes to avoid while investing a big amount at once?

Would really appreciate your suggestions and experiences.

Thanks!