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The Ultimate Guide On How Credit Cards Work: What Every Consumer Should Know

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1. Introduction to Credit Cards 1.1 What is a Credit Card? A credit card is a plastic or metal card issued by financial institutions that allows you to borrow funds to make purchases or withdraw cash, up to a certain limit. Unlike a debit card, which deducts money directly from your bank account, a card lets you borrow money which you agree to pay back later, usually with interest. Definition and basic concept: A credit card is essentially a short-term loan you can use for various types of transactions. Difference between credit and debit cards: Debit cards draw directly from your bank account whereas credit cards draw from a line of credit. Common features of credit cards: Credit limit, interest rate (APR), rewards programs, and secure purchase options.   1.2 History of Credit Cards Credit cards have come a long way since their inception. Origin and evolution: The concept dates back to the 1920s when charge cards were used at specific stores. The first universal credit card was i...