As a journalist, I am happy to assist you with your request. Budgeting is an essential aspect of personal finance, but it can be challenging to get right. Here are the top five mistakes people make when budgeting:

1. Not having a budget at all: One of the most common mistakes people make is not having a budget. Without a budget, it’s challenging to keep track of your spending and make informed financial decisions.

2. Failing to track expenses: Even if you have a budget, it’s essential to track your expenses regularly. Failing to do so can lead to overspending and make it difficult to stick to your budget.

3. Underestimating expenses: Another common mistake is underestimating expenses. It’s essential to account for all your expenses, including incidentals, to avoid overspending and ensure that you have enough money to cover your bills.

4. Not adjusting the budget: Your budget should be a living document that changes as your financial situation changes. Failing to adjust your budget regularly can lead to overspending and make it difficult to achieve your financial goals.

5. Ignoring debt: Finally, ignoring debt is a significant mistake when budgeting. It’s essential to account for your debt payments in your budget and make a plan to pay off your debt as soon as possible.

As a journalist, it’s crucial to report accurate information. These mistakes are common, but they can be avoided with proper budgeting techniques. By creating a budget, tracking expenses, accounting for all expenses, adjusting the budget, and addressing debt, you can achieve your financial goals and avoid common budgeting mistakes.