Understanding paid links

[Undecided]

I keep reading to avoid paid links like the plague but also submit to as many directories as you can.

Many directories have a fee for submission and if you place an ad on another site you pay a fee.

Can someone please give me the idiots guide as to which paid links are frowned on and which aren't.

Thank you.

 

[Linda Buquet]

Here is info right from the horse's mouth. (Google guidelines)

Link schemes - Webmasters/Site owners Help

Paid links - Webmasters/Site owners Help