When you're juggling several balances, a plan beats paying randomly. The avalanche method targets the highest-interest debt first while paying minimums on the rest — mathematically it saves the most interest.

The snowball method targets the smallest balance first for a quick win, then rolls that payment into the next debt. It can cost slightly more interest but the early momentum keeps many people motivated.

Either works; the best one is the one you'll stick with. Whichever you choose, avoid adding new high-interest debt while you dig out, and consider whether consolidating at a lower APR makes sense.