This work compiles all the essential financial life skills and knowledge necessary to enter the adult world in a single volume. The information provided may in some cases appear to be common sense, but all of it is required to obtain the financial skills to succeed in life.

This is the knowledge that should be required of every high school student prior to graduation. It is split into twelve key parts.

1. Welcome to the Jungle - covers key things every young adult needs to fledge the nest and introduces the concept of opportunity cost.

2. Decisions, Decisions - looks at the finance associated with the two main post high school paths: college (type, degree, loans, and payments) or the workforce (what you need to get and keep a job).

3. Bank on It - looks at banks vs.

credit unions vs. banking apps and various account types.

Details include the proper way to write a check and use on-line banking. 4.

Accounting Yin/Yang - details how to establish and maintain credit as well as avoid the pitfalls of debt. 5.

Grab That Cash and Make a Stash – discusses the concepts of interest, saving, and investing. 6.

Making Ends Meet - describes the intricacies of budgeting, particularly associated with how much one can afford for a house or apartment. 7.

A Place to Call Your Own - discusses the considerations of apartment living or buying a home. All the costs of purchasing a home are detailed.

Refinancing and selling a home are also discussed. 8.

Transportation Transactions - discusses the art of navigating vehicle purchase and leasing. 9.

Protect Yourself and Your Stuff - covers the various insurances needed (and why) in the adult world: health, home, auto, and life. 10.

Paying Uncle Sam – This part details the taxes that are taken out of one’s paycheck. Included are what you pay and how much you pay as well as how and why one needs to file a tax return, and how to file.

11. The Urge to Merge - discusses the financial aspects of marriage, divorce, and children.

Each of these major life events brings significant financial twists. 12.

End Game - discusses how much money you need for retirement and pathways to get there. .