Where debt comes from -- Long-term debt -- Short-term debt -- The math of debt -- Denial, acceptance, and action -- Sticking to your plan -- Controlling your cash flow -- How to make a budget -- Spending plans: the key to beating debt -- Expect the unexpected -- Getting your debt organized -- Creating a payment strategy -- Credit card strategies -- Mortgage strategies -- Student loan strategies -- Strategies for other types of debt -- Strategies that can backfire -- Bankruptcy -- Getting your creditors off your back -- Salvaging your credit score -- Guarding against identity theft -- Avoiding scams and rip-offs -- You and debt: is it really over? -- Tools and tips for staying out of debt -- Passing along good money skills

Offers solid strategies to help you get out of your money pit, with expert advice, clear strategies, and up-to-date information