How to use it
- Enter Starting amount.
- Enter Annual rate %.
- Enter Years.
- Enter Compounds / year.
- Enter Monthly contribution.
The formula
Solve monthly deposit needed to reach a target.
Worked example
Reaching $50,000 in 10 years at 5% needs about $320/month.
Frequently asked questions
What if I start with a lump sum?
It lowers the monthly amount needed.
Does the rate matter?
A higher return reduces required deposits.
Tips
- Time in the market beats timing the market.
- Reinvest returns to let compounding work.
- Keep fees low — they compound against you.
Key terms
- Compounding
- Earning returns on past returns.
- CAGR
- The smoothed annual growth rate.
- Yield
- Income as a percent of price.