This document discusses strategies for successful education planning. It outlines typical college costs and savings needs, finding that the average costs are $18,000-$35,000 per year depending on school type. It emphasizes starting a savings plan early and exploring options like 529 savings plans, which provide tax benefits but have some limitations. The document warns against overestimating financial aid and notes that student loan debt can hinder graduates' ability to save for retirement or purchase a home. Overall it stresses developing a sound savings strategy to avoid debt and take advantage of all options for funding higher education costs.