How to Start Selling Printables on Etsy Without Overcomplicating It

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What you need to know

• Busy parents looking for chore charts or meal planners
• Teachers needing classroom management tools
• Wedding planners searching for signs or templates

Selling printables on Etsy is one of the more approachable ways to try making money online, especially if you want a business that does not require inventory, shipping, or a large upfront investment.

” The sellers who do well usually start with a narrow idea, make useful products, and pay attention to search, presentation, and customer experience.

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If you are curious about this side hustle, the goal is not to chase every trend. It is to choose a printable category you can realistically create, then set up your shop in a way that helps buyers understand what they are getting.

What printables are, and why they appeal to beginners

Printables are digital files customers download and print themselves. Common examples include planners, calendars, checklists, wall art, classroom worksheets, budgeting sheets, and party signs. On Etsy, buyers often look for ready-to-use files that save them time or help them stay organized.

The appeal for beginners is straightforward: once a file is created and listed, it can be sold repeatedly without physically restocking it. That said, the work shifts to design, listing quality, customer support, and keeping your shop organized.

A printable shop is not passive income in the early stages.

Choose a niche you can actually serve

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One of the biggest mistakes new sellers make is trying to sell “printables” in general. That is too broad for most small shops. A better approach is to focus on a specific audience or use case.

Think about who the printable is for and what problem it solves. For example:

→ See what you could be approved for — free, takes about 60 seconds.

• Busy parents looking for chore charts or meal planners
• Teachers needing classroom management tools
• Wedding planners searching for signs or templates
• Students wanting study schedules or note sheets

You do not need to pick the most popular niche. You need a niche you can understand and support with useful products. A shop with a clear focus is often easier for shoppers to browse and trust.

Simple ways to test an idea before making many products

Before building a large catalog, try creating a small set of related items. If you are considering meal planners, for instance, you might make a weekly planner, a grocery list sheet, and a recipe organizer.

This helps you see whether the theme feels workable and whether you can create matching designs efficiently.

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The AI Side-Hustle Starter Kit

Pick one lane, let AI do the heavy lifting, and get your first sale — the honest starter map, minus the guru hype.

• The six real work-from-home lanes — and how to pick ONE
• Where AI actually saves you hours (and where it does not)
• The first-sale checklist that beats "more research"

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Sources & further reading

• Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB)
• Federal Trade Commission — Credit & Debt
• MyMoney.gov — U.S. Financial Literacy
• Internal Revenue Service (IRS)

This article is for general information only and is not professional financial, legal, or medical advice.

DW

Dana Whitfield — Personal Finance Editor

Dana has spent more than a decade writing about consumer debt, credit, and everyday money decisions, translating dense policy and lender fine print into plain-English steps readers can actually use. Every figure here is checked against current federal and lender guidance.

✓ Reviewed for accuracy by Marcus Reed, Accredited Financial Counselor · Updated August 2026

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How to Spot Legitimate Freelance Writing Jobs Online

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What you need to know

• Upfront fees: Be careful if you’re asked to pay to apply, get access to leads, or unlock job details
• Unclear employer identity: A listing that hides the client name without explanation can be harder to verify
• Overpromising: Claims about easy income, instant approval, or guaranteed work should be taken cautiously

Freelance writing is one of the more accessible ways to make money online, but it can also be difficult to sort real opportunities from vague listings, low-quality marketplaces, and outright scams.

If you’re looking for a practical place to start, the key is not just finding writing jobs online — it’s learning how to evaluate them before you apply.

→ Savage Affiliates — free, takes about 60 seconds.

This guide focuses on what to look for in legitimate freelance writing listings, how to compare platforms, and how to protect your time when you’re just getting started.

What counts as a legitimate writing job?

A real freelance writing opportunity should give you enough information to make an informed decision.

You may not see every detail up front, but a legitimate listing usually explains the type of work, who the client is or what industry they’re in, and how the writer will be paid.

Look for listings that clearly describe the assignment or ongoing work, such as blog posts, product descriptions, email newsletters, website copy, or research-based articles. The best opportunities also set expectations around deadlines, revision policy, and how to submit samples or a pitch.

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A posting can still be legitimate even if it doesn’t advertise a specific rate. But if it is completely vague about the work, avoids basic questions, or pushes you to respond immediately without details, that’s a reason to slow down.

Red flags that deserve a closer look

→ See what you could be approved for — free, takes about 60 seconds.

Not every suspicious listing is fraudulent, but some warning signs appear often enough to treat them seriously. If you see several of these at once, it may be better to move on.

• Upfront fees: Be careful if you’re asked to pay to apply, get access to leads, or unlock job details.
• Unclear employer identity: A listing that hides the client name without explanation can be harder to verify.
• Overpromising: Claims about easy income, instant approval, or guaranteed work should be taken cautiously.
• Generic job descriptions: If the post could apply to almost any kind of writing, it may not be a serious opening.

It also helps to watch for listings that ask for personal information too early. A legitimate client may ask for a portfolio or a writing sample, but it shouldn’t require sensitive data before you even understand the job.

Where to look for beginner-friendly opportunities

There is no single best site for every writer. Some platforms are broad freelance marketplaces, while others are curated job boards, content agencies, or direct client channels.

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The AI Side-Hustle Starter Kit

Pick one lane, let AI do the heavy lifting, and get your first sale — the honest starter map, minus the guru hype.

• The six real work-from-home lanes — and how to pick ONE
• Where AI actually saves you hours (and where it does not)
• The first-sale checklist that beats "more research"

Download the free guide

Printable. Nothing to buy to read it.

Sources & further reading

• Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB)
• Federal Trade Commission — Credit & Debt
• MyMoney.gov — U.S. Financial Literacy
• Internal Revenue Service (IRS)

This article is for general information only and is not professional financial, legal, or medical advice.

DW

Dana Whitfield — Personal Finance Editor

Dana has spent more than a decade writing about consumer debt, credit, and everyday money decisions, translating dense policy and lender fine print into plain-English steps readers can actually use. Every figure here is checked against current federal and lender guidance.

✓ Reviewed for accuracy by Marcus Reed, Accredited Financial Counselor · Updated August 2026

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How to Make Money Online as a Beginner Without a Big Following

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What you need to know

• Service-based: freelance writing, virtual assistance, bookkeeping support, customer support, transcription
• Product-based: digital downloads, printables, templates, handmade goods
• Audience-based: affiliate content, YouTube, newsletters, social media monetization

If you’re looking for ways to make money online, the hardest part is often not finding ideas—it’s figuring out which ones are realistic for your situation. The best beginner-friendly options usually don’t require a huge audience, special equipment, or a full business plan.

They do require time, consistency, and a clear sense of what you can actually offer.

→ Savage Affiliates — free, takes about 60 seconds.

This article focuses on practical online income paths for people who want to start small. Rather than chasing trends, it helps you compare options based on skill level, startup effort, and how quickly you may be able to get started.

Start by choosing the kind of online work that fits you

Before you sign up for anything, think about what you already have: spare time, writing ability, organization skills, design taste, teaching experience, or products you can sell. The best choice is usually the one you can repeat consistently.

Some online income ideas are service-based, meaning you trade time for money. Others are product-based, where you create something once and sell it more than once. A few depend on traffic or an audience, which can take longer to build.

If you want a steadier start, service work is often the most practical route.

See what you qualify for

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We go deeper on this in this rundown — worth a read before you decide anything.

• Service-based: freelance writing, virtual assistance, bookkeeping support, customer support, transcription
• Product-based: digital downloads, printables, templates, handmade goods
• Audience-based: affiliate content, YouTube, newsletters, social media monetization

Beginner-friendly ways to make money online

→ See what you could be approved for — free, takes about 60 seconds.

Freelance services

Freelancing is one of the most straightforward ways to start earning online because you can sell a skill you already have. That might be writing, editing, basic design, admin help, research, scheduling, or spreadsheet work.

You don’t need to be an expert to begin, but you do need to be reliable and clear about what you can do.

A good first step is to choose one simple service and describe it in plain language. For example, instead of saying you do “creative support,” say you help small businesses with inbox cleanup, calendar scheduling, or blog formatting.

Specific offers are easier for buyers to understand.

Free 6-page PDF · no charge

The AI Side-Hustle Starter Kit

Pick one lane, let AI do the heavy lifting, and get your first sale — the honest starter map, minus the guru hype.

• The six real work-from-home lanes — and how to pick ONE
• Where AI actually saves you hours (and where it does not)
• The first-sale checklist that beats "more research"

Download the free guide

Printable. Nothing to buy to read it.

Sources & further reading

• Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB)
• Federal Trade Commission — Credit & Debt
• MyMoney.gov — U.S. Financial Literacy
• Internal Revenue Service (IRS)

This article is for general information only and is not professional financial, legal, or medical advice.

DW

Dana Whitfield — Personal Finance Editor

Dana has spent more than a decade writing about consumer debt, credit, and everyday money decisions, translating dense policy and lender fine print into plain-English steps readers can actually use. Every figure here is checked against current federal and lender guidance.

✓ Reviewed for accuracy by Marcus Reed, Accredited Financial Counselor · Updated August 2026

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How to Spot Legit Online Side Hustles Before You Apply

Online Income ReportAffiliate income, side hustles and what actually pays

Free — takes 60 seconds

Savage Affiliates

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What you need to know

• What task am I doing?
• Who is paying me?
• How do I get matched with work or clients?

If you search for ways to make money online, you will quickly find a mix of genuine opportunities and offers that are vague, pushy, or flat-out misleading.

The challenge is not finding options; it is telling which ones are worth your time before you share personal information, spend money, or commit hours you cannot get back.

→ Savage Affiliates — free, takes about 60 seconds.

This guide focuses on a practical question: How do you spot legit online side hustles before you apply?

Whether you are considering freelance work, remote customer support, user testing, tutoring, or selling services on a platform, a quick check can help you compare options more confidently.

Start with the basics: what is the actual job?

A legitimate side hustle should be easy to understand in plain language. You should be able to answer these questions without reading pages of marketing copy:

• What task am I doing?
• Who is paying me?
• How do I get matched with work or clients?
• How and when am I paid?

If a listing talks mostly about “financial freedom,” “passive income,” or “secret systems” but never explains the work, pause. Real online work usually sounds specific.

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We go deeper on this in our make money online guide — worth a read before you decide anything.

Also look for realistic expectations about experience. Some entry-level opportunities are truly beginner-friendly, but most honest postings still mention basic requirements, such as a stable internet connection, a quiet workspace, or familiarity with certain software.

Watch for red flags that do not belong in a real offer

→ See what you could be approved for — free, takes about 60 seconds.

Scams often rely on urgency, secrecy, or unusual payment requests. A single red flag does not prove something is fake, but a cluster of them should make you cautious.

• Upfront fees to unlock jobs, training, or “exclusive access”
• Pressure to act immediately before you can review the details
• Requests for sensitive information too early in the process
• Promises of easy money with little or no work

Be especially careful if the recruiter asks you to buy equipment from a specific vendor, deposit a check, or move to a private channel before any verification. Those are not automatic deal-breakers in every situation, but they are worth slowing down for.

A useful rule: if the offer gets more urgent as your questions get more specific, step back and verify it independently.

Check the company, platform, or client before you share anything

Legit online work usually leaves a trail. Use that trail to confirm you are dealing with a real business or a real client. You do not need to do a full background check, but a few minutes of research can save you trouble.

Free 6-page PDF · no charge

The AI Side-Hustle Starter Kit

Pick one lane, let AI do the heavy lifting, and get your first sale — the honest starter map, minus the guru hype.

• The six real work-from-home lanes — and how to pick ONE
• Where AI actually saves you hours (and where it does not)
• The first-sale checklist that beats "more research"

Download the free guide

Printable. Nothing to buy to read it.

Sources & further reading

• Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB)
• Federal Trade Commission — Credit & Debt
• MyMoney.gov — U.S. Financial Literacy
• Internal Revenue Service (IRS)

This article is for general information only and is not professional financial, legal, or medical advice.

DW

Dana Whitfield — Personal Finance Editor

Dana has spent more than a decade writing about consumer debt, credit, and everyday money decisions, translating dense policy and lender fine print into plain-English steps readers can actually use. Every figure here is checked against current federal and lender guidance.

✓ Reviewed for accuracy by Marcus Reed, Accredited Financial Counselor · Updated August 2026

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• Side hustle Guide
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Medicare Part B Late Penalty: What It Costs You

HOOK

[Close-up of Medicare card and calendar] Did you know missing one Medicare deadline can raise your Part B premium for life?

KEY POINT 1

[On-screen graphic: Part B sign-up window] Medicare Part B is the medical coverage part of Medicare, and most people should enroll when they first become eligible. If you delay without qualifying coverage, the clock starts on a late enrollment penalty.

KEY POINT 2

[Animated calculator adding a small monthly amount] The penalty is added to your monthly premium, and it usually stays with you as long as you have Part B. That means waiting can cost more than just a few missed months.

KEY POINT 3

[Split screen: employer coverage vs. no coverage] There are exceptions. If you had qualifying employer coverage, you may get a special enrollment period and avoid the penalty. But retiree coverage and COBRA usually do not count the same way, so don’t assume you’re protected.

CTA

[Person checking Medicare.gov on a laptop] Before you delay Part B, verify your coverage and dates. Visit Medicare.gov or talk to Social Security to confirm whether you qualify for an exception. A quick check now can save you money later.

* This article was originally published here

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How to Choose a Dog Crate Size That Actually Fits

Choosing the right dog crate size sounds simple until you’re standing in a store aisle or scrolling product pages that list dimensions but not much else. A crate that is too small can be uncomfortable and stressful, while one that is too large may not feel as secure for a dog learning to rest or settle. The best fit depends on your dog’s size, sleeping style, and how you plan to use the crate.

If you are using a crate for house training, travel, or giving your dog a quiet place to relax, it helps to think beyond breed labels and look at the actual measurements. Here’s how to choose a crate size with less guesswork.

Start with your dog, not the crate listing

Many dogs do not fit neatly into a breed chart. Mixed breeds, long-bodied dogs, growing puppies, and unusually tall or compact dogs all benefit from being measured rather than estimated. The goal is to find a crate that lets your dog stand, turn around, and lie down comfortably without wasting a lot of space.

Measure your dog in three ways:

• Length: From the tip of the nose to the base of the tail, while standing.
• Height: From the floor to the top of the head or ears, whichever is taller when standing naturally.
• Width: Your dog’s body width can help if you are comparing smaller crates or carrier-style options.

For crate shopping, the most important numbers are length and height. A crate should usually be a little longer than your dog and tall enough for comfortable standing, but not so roomy that your dog can use one corner as a bathroom and another as a bed.

Use the crate for the job you actually need

The right size can vary depending on whether you want a crate for training, daily naps, car travel, or occasional confinement. A crate for a puppy in house training may be different from one used for an adult dog who already knows how to settle.

For crate training

When crate training, many owners prefer a snug-but-comfortable fit. That can help the crate feel like a den, which some dogs find calming. If you buy a crate for a growing puppy, look for one with a divider panel so you can adjust the interior space as your puppy gets bigger.

For adult dogs

Adult dogs generally need enough room to stand and lie down naturally. If your dog likes to stretch out, sprawl, or sleep on the side, avoid choosing the smallest option that technically fits. If your dog curls into a tight ball, a more compact crate may still be comfortable.

For travel

Carriers and travel crates should follow both your dog’s size and the rules of the vehicle or airline, if applicable. In a car, the crate should fit securely without sliding around. For airline travel, always check the carrier’s current requirements before buying anything, since size rules can be specific and can change.

Watch for common sizing mistakes

It is easy to misread crate dimensions or focus on outside measurements without checking the usable interior space. A crate with a thicker frame or rounded corners may look roomy on the product page but feel smaller in practice.

Tip: If a product page lists only outside dimensions, look for the interior measurements or ask the seller before you buy.

Other common mistakes include:

• Choosing by breed alone: Breed averages can be misleading for mixed dogs or unusually built dogs.
• Buying too large for house training: Extra space may make it harder to keep a puppy clean and comfortable.
• Forgetting accessories: A bed, mat, or water dish takes up space inside the crate.
• Ignoring door placement: A crate may fit your dog but still be awkward to place in your home or car.

If your dog is between sizes, think about your dog’s habits. Dogs that sprawl or have long legs may need the larger option. Dogs that prefer enclosed spaces often do better in a cozier fit.

Think about material, setup, and your home

Crate size is only part of the decision. The type of crate can affect how usable the space feels. Wire crates, soft-sided crates, plastic crates, and heavy-duty crates all have different shapes and footprints.

• Wire crates often provide good visibility and ventilation, and many come with dividers.
• Plastic crates can feel more enclosed and may suit some dogs who prefer privacy.
• Soft-sided crates are lightweight and portable, but may be less suitable for dogs who chew or scratch.
• Heavy-duty crates can be useful for strong or anxious dogs, though they are usually bulkier.

Measure the space where the crate will live. You will want enough clearance for the door to open, your dog to enter comfortably, and you to remove bedding or clean the crate without difficulty. If the crate will go in a bedroom, mudroom, or living area, it should fit your space without becoming an obstacle.

How to test whether a crate fits before you commit

If possible, use the product’s size guide and compare it with your dog’s measurements rather than relying on one number alone. A good fit usually means your dog can enter, turn around, stand, and lie down in a normal sleeping position.

1. Measure your dog while standing on a flat surface.
2. Compare those measurements with the crate’s interior dimensions.
3. Account for a bed, mat, or divider if you plan to use one.
4. Check whether the crate will fit in the room, car, or travel area where it will be used.
5. Review the return policy in case the size is not what you expected.

If you are buying for a puppy, a divider can be especially helpful because it lets you start with a smaller sleeping area and expand it gradually. That can make one crate useful through different growth stages instead of replacing it too soon.

Choose comfort and practicality, then compare options

The best dog crate is not simply the biggest one available or the one with the most features. It is the one that fits your dog’s body, supports the way you plan to use it, and works in your home. Measuring first, checking interior space, and thinking about training or travel needs can save you from a poor fit.

Before you buy, compare a few crates side by side. Look at interior dimensions, divider options, door style, material, and how easily the crate will fit into your routine. A little comparison now can help you choose a crate that feels more comfortable for your dog and more practical for you.

Professional contractor working on the exterior of a suburban home

* This article was originally published here

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How to Choose a Weight Loss Program That Actually Fits Your Life

Choosing a weight loss program can feel overwhelming because the options look similar at first glance. Some promise structure, others promise flexibility, and many ask for a monthly commitment before you know whether the plan fits your routine. The most useful question is not which program is “best” in general, but which one is most realistic for you.

If you are comparing diets, apps, coaching services, or memberships, look beyond the marketing language. A good fit should match your schedule, food preferences, budget, and support needs. The right choice is usually the one you can follow consistently without feeling like you need to rebuild your whole life overnight.

Start with your real-life constraints

Before comparing features, take a quick inventory of what you actually need. This helps narrow the field and keeps you from paying for extras you will not use.

• Schedule: Do you need something that works around travel, shift work, or family meals?
• Cooking comfort: Are you looking for simple recipes, prepared meals, or no cooking at all?
• Budget: Can you maintain a recurring fee, grocery changes, or meal replacements?
• Support: Do you want self-guided tools, group accountability, or one-on-one coaching?
• Health needs: Do you have conditions, food allergies, or medication considerations that affect the plan you can follow?

It is also worth asking how much change you want at the start. Some people do better with a structured reset, while others need a gentler approach that focuses on small habits. If a plan feels too strict on day one, it may be difficult to maintain long enough to see progress.

Compare the main types of weight loss options

Most weight loss solutions fall into a few common categories. Each one has tradeoffs, and the best fit depends on what kind of help you want.

Self-guided apps and trackers

These tools usually help with calorie tracking, habit logging, step counts, or meal planning. They can be a good choice if you want flexibility and do not need much hand-holding.

Best for: people who like data, want a lower-cost starting point, or prefer to work independently.

Active senior couple walking briskly outdoors in a park

Watch for: overly detailed tracking that becomes exhausting, or features that sound helpful but rarely get used.

Structured meal plans

Meal plans give you a clear framework for what to eat, and some include grocery lists or prep instructions. They can reduce decision fatigue, which is often one of the biggest barriers to sticking with a healthier routine.

Best for: people who want fewer choices and more routine.

Watch for: plans that are too rigid, rely on foods you dislike, or require constant specialty shopping.

Prepared meals and delivery services

These options can save time and make portion control easier. They may appeal to people who are busy, do not enjoy cooking, or need convenience to stay consistent.

Best for: people who value convenience and predictability.

Confident, healthy man outdoors in warm natural light

Watch for: limited menu variety, sustainability over time, and whether the meals fit your tastes and appetite.

Coaching and group support

Some programs add accountability through live coaching, group check-ins, or educational sessions. This can help if you know what to do but struggle to follow through on your own.

Best for: people who need encouragement, structure, or help problem-solving real-life obstacles.

Watch for: high-pressure sales tactics, vague credentials, or support that is more motivational than practical.

Look for features that support long-term habits

The best programs do more than help you lose weight in the short term. They also help you build habits you can keep using after the novelty wears off.

Healthy meal prep with fresh vegetables and a measuring tape on a bright kitchen counter

Helpful weight loss options tend to reduce decision fatigue, fit normal routines, and offer enough flexibility to handle imperfect weeks.

When comparing programs, look for these signs of long-term usefulness:

• Flexibility: Can you adapt meals, workouts, or tracking without starting over?
• Education: Does the program explain why a habit matters, not just what to do?
• Realistic expectations: Does it encourage gradual progress rather than all-or-nothing rules?
• Maintenance support: Is there guidance for keeping the weight off, not just losing it?
• Privacy and data use: Does the app or service explain how your personal information is handled?

Be cautious if a program makes you feel guilty for missing a day or treats every setback like a failure. That approach may create short-term intensity, but it often does not support steady progress.

Questions to ask before you sign up

A little homework can prevent disappointment later. Before you commit, try asking these practical questions:

1. How much time will this take each day or week?
2. What happens if I miss a check-in, meal, or workout?
3. Can I adjust the plan for allergies, preferences, or cultural food choices?
4. Is there a trial period, cancellation policy, or easy way to change plans?
5. What support is included, and how often can I access it?
6. Does the program encourage balanced eating and activity, or does it rely on extreme restriction?

If you are comparing apps, look at how easy the interface is to use. If you are comparing memberships or coaching, pay attention to how responsive the support feels. The details matter because convenience often determines whether a plan survives real life.

Choose the option you can keep using

There is no single weight loss program that works for everyone. A plan that looks impressive on paper may be hard to maintain, while a simpler option may fit your routine well enough to become a habit.

The best next step is to compare a few choices side by side and decide which one feels most sustainable. Focus on fit, support, flexibility, and ease of use rather than flashy promises. When you compare your options carefully, you are more likely to choose a path you can actually live with.

Bright confident smile with healthy teeth, modern dental care

* This article was originally published here

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