It's officially the holiday season and I have discovered a new guilty pleasure: mindlessly scrolling through BuzzFeed and Amazon list to try and get some inspiration for gift ideas. Unfortunately, there's only so much the budget of a college student can afford so although I may absolutely love some of the ideas, my bank account definitely does not.

After days — OK maybe just a few hours — of scrolling, it was still difficult to come up with any definitive presents.

So, in an effort to help myself and anyone else in the same boat, I came up with a list of questions to ask that might make the process of buying gifts a little easier.

1. What are some of their hobbies, likes, or favorite things?

2. Are they always looking to add to a collection of theirs?

Ex. snow globes, books, fuzzy socks

3. What are some of our best memories together and how can I incorporate that into a present?

4. If I was this person, what would I want?

5. Recently, have they been mentioning, intentionally or unintentionally, specific things they want or need?

6. What are their favorite stores or restaurants that I could get them gift cards for?

7. Do they like chocolate or certain types of holiday treats?

Trick question: everyone loves chocolate!

8. Would they like a more sentimental and/or creative gift?

Ex. collages or anything personalized

9. Do I know their clothing/accessories sizes and styles?

10. Who and what can I splurge on?

11. For friends in college: Can I find something that represents or showcases their major/field of study?

12. Who would really love extra college gear?

Answer: anyone and everyone

13. For family: What activities, chores do they find to be difficult and annoying? Is there something I could do or buy to make it a little easier for them?

14. What do I want them to get me? Would they want some of the same things?

15. How can I surprise them?