Start with every required payment
Before choosing a strategy, list each debt with its balance, interest rate, fees and minimum payment. Missing a minimum can add late fees and damage your credit record, so a payoff plan should always pay required instalments first.
When avalanche is usually cheaper
Avalanche sends surplus money to the highest-interest balance. In India, that often means credit-card debt or a high-cost personal loan before a lower-rate education or car loan. Because costly balances shrink sooner, the total interest bill is usually lower.
When snowball can help behaviour
Snowball targets the smallest balance. It may cost more mathematically, but early account closures can help people stay committed — especially when multiple apps, cards and BNPL-style dues feel overwhelming.
Choose a sequence you can sustain
A practical approach is a modified avalanche: clear dangerous high-AAPR revolving debt first, then use snowball milestones for motivation. Review the plan when income, rates or balances change.
Model it with your own numbers
Use the calculator before changing payments, transferring debt or relying on a projection.