Save · Lesson 2 of 3

Build a budget — and pay yourself first

Most people spend first and hope something is left to save. Usually there isn’t. Flip it: when money arrives, move savings out before you spend on anything else.

1Learn

  1. The 50/30/20 mapAbout 50% needs (phone bill, lunch, gas), 30% wants (games, clothes, going out), 20% savings. Your numbers can shift — the point is having a plan.
  2. Goals need numbersA goal without a number and a deadline is just a wish. “Save for a phone” becomes “Save $800 by March.”

2Try it Calculator

Warm up

Need or want?

Sort each one, then check.

Phone bill
Movie night with friends
Bus pass to school
New sneakers (yours still work)
Groceries
Video game
School supplies
Concert ticket

Budget builder

Savings come out first, then the rest is split.

You save each month

$50

Save $50 Needs $125 Wants $75

$250
20%

Turn it into a goal

16 months

$800

After savings comes out, the rest is split using the classic 50:30 needs-to-wants ratio (5/8 needs, 3/8 wants).

3Check

Remember

Saving isn’t leftover luck — it’s a decision you make first. Every dollar needs a job, especially the ones you save.

Quick check

You want a $600 item in 4 months. How much do you need to save per month?