Includes index.

Part 1. Planning your personal finances

Personal finance basics and the time value of money

Financial aspects of career planning

Money management strategy : financial statements and budgeting

Planning your tax strategy

Part 2. Managing your personal finances

Financial services : savings plans and payment accounts

Introduction to consumer credit

Choosing a source of credit : the costs of credit alternatives

Part 3. Making your purchasing decisions

Consumer purchasing strategies and legal protection

The housing decision : factors and finances

Part 4. Insuring your resources

Property and motor vehicle insurance

Health, disability, and long-term care insurance

Life insurance

Part 5. Investing your financial resources

Investing fundamentals

Investing in stocks

Investing in bonds

Investing in mutual funds

Investing in real estate and other investment alternatives

Part 6. Controlling your financial future

Starting early : retirement planning

Estate planning