Notebook — Nov. 21

So you’re ready to start holiday shopping and thinking a new car would look good in Uncle Frank’s garage and sister Helen could use a ruby necklace and ... um, finances are the only thing standing between you and your good intentions.

Finance professors Jeff Manzi and Randy Guttery from the University of Texas at Dallas have tips you may want to think about:

From a news release:

• Construct a budget and stick with it. Planning ahead allows you to look for bargains, coupons and offers like free shipping. Make sure to keep track as you spend.

• Make a list and check it twice. Be flexible and willing to trim your shopping list. Buy for families or couples, instead of individuals, or buy gifts for the children in your family, but not all the adults.

• Buy gifts online or purchase gift cards. If you shop online, you’re less tempted to impulse buy.

• Pay with cash. It’s always smarter to make purchases with cash you have available in your checking or savings account, rather than racking up debt and interest, even if you think you can pay it off immediately.

• Keep it simple. Instead of spending money on a loved one, spend time with them. Go to a movie or out to lunch. Help your children create gifts or bake treats.

— Notebook was compiled by Editor David Stevens. Contact him at: [email protected] or find him on Facebook.