Find the right starting point
Start in Learn for an explanation, open Free tools for a quick scenario, or explore Learning packs for a more structured workbook. You do not need a paid template to use the educational lessons.
Working with a downloaded pack
Save a copy of the original file before changing inputs. If the download is a ZIP archive, extract it into a folder before opening the workbook or companion files. Keep the instructions alongside the model, and use a clear filename for each scenario you want to preserve.
A workbook is not a live connection to your bank, broker or accounting system unless its product page explicitly says so. Enter your own assumptions and check the dates, currencies and units. Do not replace formulas just to make a result match an expectation.
Excel and compatibility
Read the individual product page for the intended software and supplied file types. Spreadsheet applications can differ in chart rendering, data validation and formula support. A workbook opening without an error is not by itself proof that every calculation has been reproduced correctly.
Use the worked example as a starting check. If outputs differ, inspect the application’s calculation setting, percentage entries, date handling and any unsupported-function message. Save a separate copy before converting a file into another spreadsheet format.
Why does the output look wrong?
Check the units first
Confirm whether the model expects pounds, thousands or millions. A debt input of 100 means very different things in a model labelled £ and one labelled £m. Also distinguish a percentage from a whole number: 5% and 5 are not the same input in a percentage-formatted cell.
Change one assumption at a time
Return to a worked example, note its output and change a single input. Check whether the direction and scale of the movement make sense before changing more inputs. For a DCF, distinguish changes in operating cash from changes in the discount rate.
Look for a model warning
Read input validation and model-check messages before relying on an output. An invalid assumption can make a result meaningless even when it is a number. For example, a perpetual-growth valuation needs a discount rate above the assumed long-run growth rate.
A smooth chart is not a forecast
Calculator charts illustrate the assumptions entered. Real returns, costs, prices and payment timing vary. Try a downside scenario and identify which assumptions you control and which are uncertain.
Downloads, checkout and delivery
Product pages should state what is included, the file format and the price before purchase. Only use a checkout link shown as available on the relevant product page. A product preview or sample is not confirmation that payment and delivery are active.
If you complete a purchase, keep the confirmation and use the delivery instructions provided by the checkout service. Do not pay a second time simply because a download is missing. Use the help route displayed in that purchase confirmation, and avoid sharing payment details or confidential financial records in a public comment.
Free tools and your information
The free calculation tools use the numbers you enter to produce illustrations. Use fictional data if you are exploring the mechanics. Downloaded CSVs or workbooks can contain your inputs, so store and share them with care. Any separately linked external service has its own terms and privacy information.
Contact and support
Email financemadeclear.kl@gmail.com for product questions, technical issues or feedback. Include the page or product name and a short description. Never email card details, passwords or confidential financial records.
Feedback and further guidance
You can find our verified social account at @financemadeclear.kl. For general feedback, identify the page or product, describe the issue and use a non-confidential example. Social messages are not a channel for personalised financial advice or sensitive payment information.
For free UK money guidance, MoneyHelper provides information beyond the scope of these educational tools. For a decision that depends on your circumstances, seek appropriately qualified help.