how do credit cards work?

If you're gonna start out, I'd recommend taking the hit and paying some interest for at least 6 months. Nobody (creditors) likes a balance payer. Be smart about it, you'll most likely end up having to get a secured with annual fee credit car. After establishing yourself for a few months, then start paying it off every month if you wish. Just budget yourself X amount of dollars to pay twoards the card every month and stick with it. Do not ever pay just the minimum. Credit is very important to have, buying whatever you want with actual cash is a very stupid train of thought to have. Bad credit is better than no credit. Just cause you don't agree with how the credit system works, doesnt mean that you shouldnt play by their rules.

It's always better to use someone elses money.