Before you treat your discrete variables as categorical, consider whether you should at least evaluate the linear component by treating it as continuous. For variables with partial orderings, or with both linear and nonlinear components, consider combining continuous and categorical variables together.
Believe it or not, your credit score will be higher if you have 6-10 credit accounts than if you have just one or two. Here are action items to consider to improve this section of your credit report: 1  Pay on time. 2  Credit cards. 3  Utility bills. 4  Library dues.
First, understand that improving your credit score takes time and diligent action. Paying your credit card balance off on time for two months won't equate to a meteoric rise in your credit score. What will make a positive difference is consistent action over time. Of course, when it comes to renting an apartment you may not have months to spend patiently coaxing your credit score higher and higher.