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There are 11 topics of personal finance that every consumer deals with -- from car loans to taxes. To educate you so that you can make smart choices, we've created the Basics.

Basics Series - Select - Auto loans Checking Credit Cards Debt management Insurance CDs and investing Home equity Mortgages College financing Taxes Retirement

In each Basics section, you'll find: A thorough discussion of the topic written in step-by-step style. A quiz at the end of each chapter so you can test your knowledge along the way. Links to Bankrate calculators, surveys and decision tools, set in the context that you need to use them. Money-saving advice.

The Basics were written by Bankrate's experts on each topic and are updated whenever there are changes in laws or financial practices. If you have a question or comment for the editors or writers, please write to us here.