Guide
How to maximize credit card points without spreadsheets (2026)
Spreadsheet trackers go stale when issuers change categories, add limited-time offers, or merchant codes surprise you. Pikt replaces the spreadsheet with live routing and plain-English explanations.
Quick comparison
| Card | Best for | Earn rate | Annual fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spreadsheet method | Static planning | Manual | Your time |
| Pikt routing | Live decisions | Automated | Free tier |
| Pikt simulator | What-if testing | Instant | Free |
Why most people pick the wrong card
Spreadsheets assume you always pick the right card — they track intent, not actual checkout behavior.
How Pikt routes smarter than guesswork
Pikt links the cards you already carry, weighs your offers and category earn rates, and tells you the best card to use — with a plain-English explanation and dollar estimate for every purchase. Pikt Checkout names your best card before you click pay. You still pay with your own card. Coming next: Pikt Nearby will name your best card on your lock screen when you're ready to pay in stores. Pikt updates recommendations when offers change — no manual spreadsheet edits.
Frequently asked questions
- Is a spreadsheet ever useful?
- For planning sign-up bonuses or annual fee math, yes. For daily checkout decisions, automation wins.
$426 at Delta Airlines → Bilt Mastercard earns $18.74 (+$14.48 vs default card)
See your personal best cards
Generic advice assumes average spend. Tell us what you spend on, how you redeem, and which cards you carry — we'll name the best one you already hold for each area.
Where does your money go?
Pick your top spending areas and we'll show which of your cards earns most for each.
How do you want to use rewards?
No account needed · Free · Takes about 30 seconds
No account required · Free · Nothing is saved