Article: Look up the kind of phone you want and see how much it costs. In addition to the basic cost of the phone, figure out any accompanying monthly bills. See if you can find a deal on a phone. For example, look into buying used phones on sites like eBay. This can be very helpful if money is a big concern for your parents. To convince your parents, you need to sidestep their reasons. Think about what they might say so that you can plan a response in advance. For example, they might say no because you might have had other electronics in the past which might've broken but try to convince them that you're older and more mature now and that you can take care of your own belongings. If your parents are worried about money, then they are likely to say that they can't afford a new phone. Many parents have practical concerns in regards to cost and monthly bills when it comes to a cellphone. You can offer to pay for some of the phone yourself by getting a part-time job or save up your allowance to help with finances. If you play a lot of video games, then your parents may worry that you'll download too many gaming apps. If your older sibling got caught talking to someone they weren't supposed to, then your parents may worry that you'll do the same. After you've made a list of potential concerns, think about how to approach them. What can you do or say to ease your parents worry about you getting a phone? For every problem, think of a solution. You need to counter your parents' reasons why you shouldn't get a phone, so find an argument against each of the reasons you just listed. Show your parents that the phone won't cost as much as they think, or explain to them how you will help pay for it. Ask your friends for free gaming apps, or be prepared to promise your parents that you won't download any games. If it's the time you spend gaming that your parents are worried about, then promise to cut back on video games if you get the phone. Promise to let your parents periodically check who you are texting or messaging. You're more likely to convince your parents if you have a strong case, so plan to show them that your new phone is a necessity by brainstorming all the reasons why you need one. Promise to be responsible with the phone. Let your parents know that you'll be upfront with them about what you're doing on the phone and will use it responsibly. Promise to limit your time on the phone. You can agree to only use the phone for a set number of hours each day. A phone would allow you to call your parents if you're in trouble or to contact emergency services if you're in danger. Also, it's okay to exaggerate just a little bit but if you're too dramatic your parents might think that you're joking and are immature and not able to ask Remind them that kids your age often encounter peer pressure, so having an easy way to contact them would allow you to have an "out" in such situations. If you miss school, you could ask your friend for their notes and the assignments. Or if you missed a day of school and needed to catch up or maybe if you forgot a book or notes you need. Remind your parents that if you don't get your own phone, you're going to have to keep using theirs which is pretty annoying for them. Cellphones can have some benefits. If you emphasize how the phone can help you thrive, your parents will be more likely to allow you to have one. Emphasize any learning possibilities from the phone. For example, you can listen to audiobooks or download apps to help you organize your homework. Tell your parents unlimited texting can allow you to alert them of your whereabouts if you're ever running late. Your parents need to know that you can take care of the phone, so think of how you've shown them that you are responsible in the past. Remember to do your homework every day. Do all of your chores without your parents asking and maybe even do extra chores that your parents would like. Take care of your clothes, backpack, and video games. Getting a job, if legally permissible, and won't interfere with your studies. Responsibly spend your lunch money and save any money you receive as a gift. Present the phone as an ongoing reward that you will have to continue to earn. For example, your parents could require you to keep your grades up, do extra chores, or help pay for the plan. You don't have to have your speech written out word-per-word, but it can help to jot down your thoughts first. Practice what you'll say a few times in front of the mirror. This way, you'll go into the situation feeling a little more prepared. You can start the conversation with something like, "Hey, I'd like to talk to you guys about something that's been on my mind." To introduce the topic of the cellphone, say something like, "I've been really wanting a cellphone for awhile now."

What is a summary?
Do your research on cellphones. Consider the reasons your parents might say no. Find ways to address potential concerns. Plan your response. Think of reasons you should have a phone. Identify the benefits of having a phone. Show your parents that you are responsible. Suggest requirements for keeping the phone. Practice what you'll say.