How to use the savings thermometer printable
- Type a title and your savings goal in dollars.
- Choose the number of marks from 2 to 20. The tube is divided into that many equal steps, each with its dollar amount.
- Optionally enter an amount saved so far to fill the tube to that level before you print.
- Print the page and color the tube as you save. Write the date beside each mark when you reach it.
Formula
Amount at a mark = goal x mark number / number of marks
Amounts are rounded to the nearest cent, half up
Fill height = amount saved / goal x the height of the tube
The last mark always shows the full goal.
A $1,000 goal with 10 marks
Each step is $1,000 / 10 = $100, so the marks read $100, $200, $300 and so on up to $1,000, with a date line beside each. If you enter $250 saved so far, the tube is filled a quarter of the way.
With 3 marks the steps do not divide evenly. The marks read $333.33, $666.67 and $1,000, because $1,000 x 1/3 is $333.333 and $1,000 x 2/3 is $666.667, both rounded to the nearest cent. The tool notes when amounts are rounded.
A goal you can see
A thermometer chart turns a savings goal into a picture. Each mark is a smaller target on the way, which can feel more reachable than the whole amount. Coloring the tube yourself makes the progress something you do by hand, and you can pin the page where the household sees it.
Choose more marks for a long goal and fewer for a short one. Ten marks on a $1,000 goal gives round numbers of $100, while 8 marks gives $125 each.
Goals beyond one sheet
Use the same chart for a fundraiser, a trip or a household fund. To plan how much to set aside each month, try the savings goal calculator or the sinking fund calculator. A fixed weekly pattern is in the 52 week savings challenge, and children can track pocket money with the allowance tracker.
The chart is a drawing and does not hold or move any money. It makes no claim about how fast any goal can be reached.
Assumptions and limits
- The goal is entered in dollars and cents, up to one billion dollars.
- Marks are equal steps from zero to the goal.
- Amounts at marks are rounded to the nearest cent.
- The amount saved so far must not be more than the goal.
Frequently asked questions
How do I make a savings thermometer?
Enter your goal and the number of marks. The tool draws a tube divided into equal dollar steps that you color in as you save.
What if the marks do not divide the goal evenly?
Each mark is rounded to the nearest cent, and the top mark always shows the whole goal. The notes under the preview say when rounding happened.
Can I fill the thermometer before printing?
Yes. Enter the amount saved so far and the tube is filled to that level.
How many marks can I use?
From 2 to 20. Ten marks makes tidy steps for goals such as $1,000.