New Delhi, April 21 -- A clean credit profile is an important factor when you apply for a credit card, home loan, mortgage or personal loan in the future; and it is possible through proper planning. Thus, it is essential that new borrowers understand the difference between credit score and credit report. 

Notably, it is the prominent credit bureaus in India - Equifax, Experian, CIBIL and CRIF High Mark - that provide your credit report and calculate your credit score, to determine your creditworthiness and repayment ability for lenders.

Here's an explainer about what the two concepts mean, how your credit score is evaluated, factors that influence it, how it differs from a credit report, and other frequently asked questions (FAQs)....