By HEATHER MCPHERSON
The Orlando Sentinel

Making a grocery list tends to be the "Duh!" shopping tip during these tight times.
But savvy shoppers don't simply list ingredients as if it's a wish list.

They think in terms of meals, not items. This keeps the list focused on what you really need.

A secondary list posted near the pantry or inside a cupboard door will also help you avoid unnecessary purchases.

Fill this list with the items you have available. That way one quick look will eliminate frantic rummaging. Ditto for the refrigerator and freezer contents. (A white board is ideal for the icebox.)

Too much work, you say? Not if it keeps your budget in check.

Management gurus have long identified making and updating lists as key success strategies.

As the head of your household, rethinking the list might be one of your best budget-
stretching tools.