[header] How to prepare a financial plan [title] Assess your current financial situation. [step] In order to write a financial plan, you'll first have to have a clear picture of where your finances are now. To do so, start by calculating your net worth. 
To do so, you will need to calculate your total assets, which include everything from money in checking or investment accounts to your equity in your house and car. Then, you'll have to calculate your liabilities, including how much you still owe on your house and car, and any other outstanding debts like student loans or unpaid bills.