Build a Monthly Budget Calculator

3. Calculators & Personal Finance Tools ⏱ 30 minutes min 📊 Beginner

Objective

Create a working monthly budget spreadsheet using AI to build the formulas.

1

Prompt: 'Create a simple monthly budget spreadsheet with categories for income, needs, wants, and savings, including a formula that totals each section and shows what's left over.'
2

Ask the AI to explain each formula in plain language before you use it.
3

Copy the layout into Google Sheets or Excel.
4

Enter your own rough numbers and confirm the totals calculate correctly.
5

Ask the AI for 2 suggestions based on your numbers (e.g., 'my wants category looks high u2014 any suggestions?').

Instructor TipHave students use rounded, comfortable practice numbers rather than real private finances if working in a group setting.

TakeawayYou now own a reusable budget calculator you can update every month without paying for a budgeting app.