Credit cards are a payment instrument that offer countless benefits; like the ability to increase your purchasing power, payment flexibility and world wide access. 

You can spend up to your credit limit. When you receive your statement, you should pay at least the minimum amount. Banks charge interest over unpaid balances. Generally, there is no accrued interest if you pay your full balance by the end of the month. If you have a pending balance, interest will be charged to your account, at an annual percentage rate (APR), which depends on the issuer.

How it works:

The credit card will make a credit line available to you, with an amount you are authorized to spend. As you shop, the amount you charged to your credit card will be deduct from your credit line. 
For example, if your initial credit line is $500, and you make a purchase in the amount of $50 with your credit card; your available credit will be reduced to $450. When you pay your pending balance of $50, your credit line will go back to $500.

Who is in control?

Make sure you control your credit card, not the other way around.
A credit card is like a short term loan. It is the most popular personal credit there is, and also the least understood.  Even though it seams easy to use – just swipe it, right? – There is a right and a wrong way to use it.