Loan guides and articles
Plain-English guides that explain how loans work, with worked examples you can reproduce in the calculator.
How Loan Amortization Works (With a Real Example)
Learn how amortization splits each loan payment into interest and principal, with a worked example and why early payments are mostly interest.
APR vs Interest Rate: What's the Difference?
APR and interest rate are not the same. Learn what each includes, how to compare loan offers fairly and where APR can mislead.
Should You Make Extra Loan Payments? How Much You Can Save
See how extra monthly payments cut interest and shorten a loan, with a worked example and the checks to make before paying extra.
5 Ways to Lower Your Monthly Loan Payment
Practical ways to reduce a monthly loan payment, from a longer term to a bigger down payment, and the trade-offs of each.
Fixed vs Variable Rate Loans: Which Is Better?
Compare fixed and variable interest rate loans, including payment stability, risk, typical uses and questions to ask a lender.