INTRODUCTION: Why You Should Learn Finance Now
Money touches every part of life — what you eat, where you live, and what dreams you can chase.
But here’s the truth: most schools never teach you how to manage it. Finance isn’t about
complicated formulas or stock charts — it’s about making smart decisions with whatever money
you have. If you learn this early, you’ll avoid the mistakes most adults regret later.
Chapter 1 : What is Finance , Really?
Finance simply means managing your money — how it comes in, how it goes out, and how it
grows. It’s divided into two parts: Personal finance and Business finance. Even if you’re a
student with no income yet, you’re already doing finance — every time you decide between
buying a pizza or saving for something bigger.
Chapter 2 : The basics of money .
Money is just a tool — its value changes over time. ₹1000 today buys less in the future because of
inflation. So, if you hide your cash in a drawer, it slowly loses power. Smart people don’t just
save; they learn how to make money grow faster than inflation.
Chapter 3 : income and expenses
Even a small income can teach you financial discipline. Start by writing down every rupee you
spend — coffee, snacks, subscriptions, everything. When you know where your money goes, you
can redirect it towards things that actually matter — your goals, not your impulses.
Chapter 4 : Budgeting- The art of control
A budget is simply a plan for your money. Try the 50–30–20 rule: 50% for needs, 30% for wants,
20% for savings and investments. This simple rule keeps you from going broke before the month
ends. Budgeting isn’t restriction — it’s direction.
Chapter 5 : Saving — Your First Financial Habit
Saving is the foundation of every rich person’s story. Start small — even ₹100 a week matters.
Build an emergency fund that covers at least 3 months of expenses. Saving doesn’t make you rich
instantly, but it builds the discipline required to become rich later.
Chapter 6 : Investing — Making Money Work For You
Saving protects your money. Investing multiplies it. Start with simple options like SIP in mutual
funds or index funds. Even ₹500 per month, started early, can grow massively due to
compounding — earning interest on your interest over time.
Chapter 7 : Debt And credit
Debt can build or destroy you — depending on how you use it. Good debt increases your earning
ability, while bad debt drains your future. Before borrowing, ask: ‘Will this make me money or
cost me more in the long run?’ Learn about credit score early — it affects your financial
reputation.
Chapter 8 : Financial habits and Discipline
Money success isn’t about luck — it’s about habits. Pay yourself first, avoid impulse spending,
track progress, and keep learning. Discipline beats intelligence in finance.
Chapter 9 : Money Mindset
Your mindset decides whether you control money or chase it forever. Stop saying ‘I’m broke.’
Start saying ‘I’m learning to manage money.’ Wealth isn’t about showing off; it’s about
freedom and options.
Chapter 10: Building a financial free future
Here’s your roadmap: Learn how money works, track expenses, budget wisely, build an
emergency fund, start investing early, avoid debt traps, and keep improving. Financial freedom
isn’t a dream — it’s a result of small, smart steps repeated over years.
Conclusion
Finance is not just for bankers or investors — it’s for everyone who wants stability and freedom.
Smart choices today can set you up for life. You don’t need to be rich to start learning finance —
you need to start learning to become rich.
About the author
Akash Mahato is passionate about simplifying finance for students and helping young people build
confidence with money. Through his writing, he aims to make financial literacy easy, practical, and
empowering for everyone.
