The debt avalanche attacks the highest-interest debt first and saves the most money, while the snowball attacks the smallest balance first for quick motivational wins.

List every debt with its balance, rate, and minimum payment, then throw all spare dollars at the top debt while paying minimums on the rest.

On typical debts, the avalanche saves hundreds or thousands in interest, but the snowball's early wins keep more people committed to the plan.

Choose avalanche if you are numbers-driven and patient, snowball if you need visible progress, or a hybrid that starts with quick wins then switches to avalanche.

Keep a small emergency fund so surprises do not go back on cards, automate minimums, and celebrate each debt you clear.