When it comes to managing debt, deciding whether to tackle student loans or credit card debt first can feel like choosing between the Avengers and the Justice League—both sides have their strengths, but you want to pick the one that helps you save the day. Let’s break this down in a way that’s as easy to digest as your favorite binge-worthy show.

Credit card debt usually comes in hot with higher interest rates, often reaching a whopping 20% or more. It’s like that overenthusiastic friend who keeps pushing you to go out when you just want to chill at home. The longer you let that debt linger, the more it can snowball, so it’s often wise to prioritize paying it down first. Think of it as putting out a fire before it spreads. Paying off high-interest credit cards can save you a boatload in interest payments, freeing up cash for other financial goals.

On the flip side, student loans typically have lower interest rates, especially if you’ve got federal loans. They’re more like that reliable friend who always shows up on time but never steals the spotlight. Plus, many federal student loans come with flexible repayment options and even the possibility of forgiveness. This means they might not be as urgent to tackle immediately compared to your credit cards.

So how do you decide? Start by taking a close look at your interest rates. If your credit card debt is significantly higher than your student loan rates, focus on paying down those cards first. But don’t forget to make at least the minimum payments on your student loans; you don’t want to accidentally trigger any nasty penalties or affect your credit score negatively.

Another thing to consider is your financial situation. If you’re feeling the weight of credit card debt pressing down on your monthly budget, it might be worth prioritizing that to find some breathing room. Alternatively, if you’ve got a solid plan to pay off one debt while maintaining the other, that might work too—kind of like splitting your attention between two favorite shows without missing a beat.

If you’re still unsure, a practical approach could involve using the snowball or avalanche methods. The snowball method suggests paying off the smallest debts first to build momentum, while the avalanche method focuses on tackling the highest interest rates first. Choose the method that feels right for you, but remember, the goal is to feel empowered in your choices.

Ultimately, whether you prioritize student loans or credit card debt depends on your unique situation. Assess your interest rates, your cash flow, and your emotional state—yes, money management is as much about feelings as it is about numbers. Like any great superhero team-up, it’s all about figuring out which debt to battle first in order to come out on top. With a solid plan in place, you can conquer your debts and emerge victorious, ready to take on whatever financial adventures lie ahead.