As an investor, what should I look for in selecting the most ideal exchange platform?
There is no big deal as to what exchange platform you choose as long as there is a big volume of trades in it. Exchange platforms varies in their environment but share the same principles with regards to their trades. I would suggest you choose platforms with high volumes on their coins and not just popularity alone.
Agree with that. Just addition into these is that, you may check also feedbacks from the current users cause it could be some basis that certain exchanges is playing well or there is huge problem inside. Security also is very important. Just don't fool for phishing sites cause it definitely bring you down and nothing left in your wallet.