Debt Payoff Strategy Quiz

Why Your Strategy Matters

Picking the wrong debt payoff strategy is one of the top reasons people quit. Research on financial behavior shows that the “best” method on paper isn’t always the best method for you. Someone who thrives on quick wins will struggle with the avalanche method’s slow start. Someone who’s analytical will get frustrated watching extra interest pile up with the snowball approach.

This quiz factors in your motivation style, debt profile, budget flexibility, and experience level to recommend a strategy you’ll actually stick with.

How the Quiz Works

We ask five questions about:

• Your debt profile — How many debts you’re managing and how rates compare
• Your motivation style — Whether you’re driven by visible progress or maximum efficiency
• Your budget — How much extra you can put toward debt each month
• Your experience — Whether this is your first attempt or you’ve tried before

Based on your answers, we recommend one of four strategies and explain why it fits your situation. We also suggest alternatives worth considering.

The Strategies We Recommend

Debt Snowball

Pay off your smallest balance first for quick wins. Best for people who need motivation and have multiple debts. Learn more about the snowball method.

Debt Avalanche

Target your highest interest rate first to save the most money. Best for analytical thinkers with varied interest rates. Learn more about the avalanche method.

Debt Snowflake

Send every bit of found money to your debt — perfect when budgets are tight and you can’t afford large extra payments. Learn more about the snowflake method.

Hybrid Approach

Combine elements of multiple strategies — start with a quick win, then switch to high-interest targeting. Learn more about hybrid strategies.

FAQ

Can I change strategies later?

Absolutely. Many successful debt payoff stories involve switching strategies partway through. Start with whatever the quiz recommends, and if it stops working for you after a few months, try a different approach.

What if I got a strategy I didn’t expect?

The quiz is based on behavioral research about what keeps people consistent. If you strongly prefer a different approach, go with your gut — the most important factor is choosing a strategy you’ll stick with.

Should my partner take the quiz too?

If you’re paying off debt together, it can be really helpful for both partners to take the quiz. If you get different results, a hybrid strategy often works well for couples.