Book excerpt: The fun and easy guide to the leading personal finance software—completely updated for the latest version of Quicken! You want to organize your personal finances and save, but the project seems overwhelming? Expert financial guide and bestselling author Stephen Nelson shows how taking control of your finances can be quick and effortless with Quicken, the number one personal finance software on the market. Providing you with a thorough introduction to all the latest features and enhancements to the latest version, Nelson shows you how to use the program to track your income and expenses, maximize savings, pay your bills, manage your investments, and balance your checkbook. Whether you're a first-time Quicken customer or looking to take advantage of the updates the latest release has to offer, Quicken "X" For Dummies offers a straightforward-but-fun approach to this popular personal finance software. You'll set up Quicken "X" properly, so you get started off on the right foot, then move on to create an electronic checkbook, monitor your credit cards and cash in one place, and simplify all your financial housekeeping. You'll learn how to use Quicken to build a nest egg, track your investments, prepare for tax time, and more. Veteran author Stephen Nelson provides a thorough update to his classic bestseller on the number one personal financial management planning program Shows you how to track your day-to-day finances, better manage your investments, boost your personal savings, be more responsible with your spending, tackle debt, and more Presents a fun and friendly approach to a topic that many people find intimidating or overwhelming and quickly and easily helps you take control of your personal finances Whether you're just starting to pinch pennies or have been saving for several years, Quicken "X" For Dummies will help you keep control of your finances—the fun and easy way!