When it comes to investments, there are four critical factors you should always keep in mind: returns, risk, cost, and liquidity. Here's a quick checklist to help you assess your investments:

1. Returns: How do you generate returns on this investment? Is it through capital appreciation or regular income? Make sure to evaluate both absolute returns and compounded annual growth rate (CAGR).

2. Risk: While higher returns may come with higher risk, focus on risk-adjusted returns. You also need to understand if there's a chance of losing your capital, particularly if it’s a market-linked investment.

3. Cost: Every investment comes with some associated costs. Are they fixed or variable? Are there any exit charges if you need to withdraw? Make sure to calculate all expenses involved.

4. Liquidity: Can you get your money back when needed? Is the investment locked in for a certain period, or is it illiquid? Ensure you understand the liquidity aspect before investing.