This Black Friday on Nov. 23, don’t get caught up in big crowds and ferocious mothers fighting over the hottest new item, make a strategy and become a master of the art of Black Friday shopping.

Black Friday is the day following Thanksgiving, starting the Christmas shopping season. Black Friday’s name originated from the point of a retailer turning a profit into the black. Stores offer deals not available on regular shopping days and open early in the morning, usually drawing in enormous crowds lining up to be the first to get the perfect deal.

When battling the crowds, using a strategy will change shoppers from newbie to professional. First, make a list of items to buy. This will make it easier to get in and out of stores. Download a price match app, and match the items on your list at different stores to get the best deal possible. Once out and shopping, avoid using credit cards. The interest charge on items will essentially take away any discount. If credit cards are your preference, use layaway. Many stores still have it available. Putting an item on layaway consists of making a discounted payment on it and paying it off gradually, then once all the payments are completed, it’s yours.

Senior Nicole Rutherford has her own strategy to win the battle.

“I go with a group and each of us are assigned an item. When we get the item, we all meet up in line,” Rutherford said. “Our new possessions give us new sense of victory.”

Dressing cute is not your best bet for Black Friday shopping. Be sure to dress in clothes that will make it easy to maneuver around in. The crowds will be massive and wearing heels and tight jeans will surely make standing in long lines for hours less enjoyable.