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Structured finance notes

Finance, explained in order

Clear, structured notes that take you from the time value of money to valuation, markets and derivatives, with a worked example in every lesson.

Start with FoundationsSee the learning path

Free to read. No account needed.

Why learn with Notes by Sara

AI tools answer single questions. Notes by Sara teaches finance in order.

One path, in order
Nine subjects, arranged so every concept builds on the one before it. You always know what to learn next.
Intuition before formulas
Each note explains the idea in plain words first, then the formula, with every term defined.
Worked examples throughout
Real numbers, every step shown, so you can follow the method and repeat it in an exam.
One consistent system
The same structure, notation and level of detail across every subject, from financial math to derivatives.

The learning path

Start at the foundations and work forward. Each subject opens as its notes are published.

FoundationsOpen now
Personal FinanceComing soon
Financial Statement AnalysisComing soon
Corporate FinanceComing soon
ValuationComing soon
Investments & Portfolio TheoryComing soon
Equity MarketsComing soon
Fixed IncomeComing soon
DerivativesComing soon
See the learning path

Start here

FoundationsTime value of moneyWhy money today is worth more than money tomorrow, how to discount a future cash flow, and how annuities are valued. The idea every other topic in finance is built on.Read the note →

Frequently asked questions

What is Notes by Sara?

Notes by Sara is a free, structured set of finance notes. It covers finance in nine subjects, from the time value of money and accounting basics to valuation, fixed income and derivatives.

Who are the notes for?

University students, people preparing for finance exams, and anyone who wants to understand how finance works. No finance background is needed to start with Foundations.

How is this different from asking an AI chatbot?

A chatbot answers the question you think to ask. Notes by Sara gives you the full path: what to learn, in what order, explained the same way every time, with worked examples you can check.

Are the notes free?

Yes. Every note on the site is free to read, with no account needed.

Is this financial advice?

No. All content is for education only and is not financial, investment or professional advice.

How often are new notes published?

Notes are published subject by subject. Foundations is open now, and the other subjects follow in order.

Can I suggest a topic?

Yes. Email [email protected] with the concept you would like explained.