‘I just don’t have a clue where to start’: Where should I invest my $50,000 life savings right now?

Dear Quentin,

I have a question that might appear like a simple one, especially for all the advanced money-management folks out there and for people with more money than I have. I am 50, have very little savings, and I would like to invest $50,000. What is a good type of account to start with? Where can I get a 5% or 6% interest rate?

I…