Money Matters
What is the difference between a debit card and a credit card?
A debit card takes money directly from your bank account; a credit card borrows money you must pay back.
What common household item can be used to unclog a sink drain before calling a plumber?
Baking soda and vinegar (or a plunger).
What’s the professional way to address someone in a work email if you don’t know their name?
Use “Dear Hiring Manager” or “To Whom It May Concern.”
How many hours of sleep does the average adult need per night?
7–9 hours.
Your car tire goes flat—what’s the first thing you should do?
Pull over safely, turn on hazard lights, and assess before changing the tire or calling for help.
If you don’t pay your credit card balance in full, what fee do you pay?
Interest (finance charges).
How often should you replace your air filters in your home?
Every 1–3 months (depending on pets, dust, allergies).
In a job interview, what’s the best way to answer “What’s your biggest weakness?”
Share a real weakness but explain how you’re improving (e.g., “I used to struggle with time management, but now I use a planner and digital reminders”).
Name one benefit of drinking enough water daily.
Benefits include improved energy, better digestion, skin health, kidney function, or concentration.
You accidentally lock yourself out of your apartment—what’s the safest step to take?
Call landlord, property manager, or licensed locksmith (avoid unsafe entry).
What percentage of your monthly income is recommended to spend on housing (rent/mortgage)?
About 30% or less of your gross monthly income.
You spill red wine on your carpet—what should you do first?
Blot (don’t rub) and apply salt, baking soda, or club soda to absorb.
What’s the difference between a W-2 and a 1099 worker?
W-2 = employee (taxes withheld by employer). 1099 = independent contractor (responsible for own taxes).
What is the difference between urgent care and the emergency room?
Urgent care = non-life-threatening issues (flu, stitches, minor injuries). ER = life-threatening emergencies (chest pain, severe injury).
What documents are essential to grab first in an emergency evacuation?
Important documents like IDs, passports, birth certificates, financial/legal papers.
Name one advantage and one disadvantage of leasing a car instead of buying.
Advantage: lower monthly payments, drive a new car every few years. Disadvantage: no ownership, mileage limits, possible fees.
What household appliance uses the most energy on average?
Heating and cooling systems (HVAC).
Your boss gives you unclear instructions—what’s the best first step?
Ask clarifying questions to confirm expectations.
What are two signs of burnout at work?
Signs include chronic fatigue, irritability, lack of motivation, poor concentration, or declining work quality.
You just got into a minor car accident. What should you do before leaving the scene?
Exchange information, take photos, call the police if required, and notify your insurance company.
What does it mean to “diversify” your investments?
Diversifying means spreading your money across different assets (stocks, bonds, real estate, etc.) to reduce risk.
How do you reset a tripped circuit breaker?
Locate your electrical panel, find the switch in the “off” position, and flip it back to “on.”
Explain what “networking” means and why it’s valuable.
Networking = building professional relationships to exchange information, opportunities, or support for career growth.
What’s the difference between a deductible and a copay in health insurance?
Deductible = what you pay out of pocket before insurance kicks in. Copay = flat fee for a specific service (like a doctor visit).
What’s the difference between a will and a power of attorney?
A will = outlines who gets your assets after death. Power of attorney = authorizes someone to make legal/financial/medical decisions for you if you’re unable.