Personal finance doesn't have to be complicated. Below are the best guides to read first — picked to give you the biggest impact, in the right order.
I'm Luis Paiva — I write about money the way I wish someone had explained it to me. No jargon, no agenda, no products pushed for hidden commission.
I live in the UK and have made plenty of money mistakes myself. This site is everything I wish I'd known sooner. Read more about me →
Before anything else, you need to know where your money goes. This covers practical systems that work without willpower — not spreadsheets you'll abandon in week two.
Step two is a cash buffer. Without one, any unexpected expense sends you straight into debt. This guide shows you how to build one even if money is tight.
If you're carrying high-interest debt, paying it off is the best guaranteed return you can get. Here's how to do it without making your situation worse.
The most common question I get. The honest answer depends on your situation — this guide walks through both options clearly so you can decide for yours.
When markets fall, panic is the worst thing you can do. This explains the principles that stop you making expensive emotional decisions with your money.
Fixed rates ending, remortgaging, what to do when rates rise
Balance transfers, building credit, paying off debt faster
How much you need, tax relief, pension vs ISA decisions
Best rates, ISA rules, making the most of your allowance
Self assessment, Making Tax Digital, end of year checklist
DMPs, unemployment, credit card debt, getting back on track