What is a critical reason why someone should pay off credit card debts before taking out a new loan?

Paying off credit card debts before taking out a new loan is crucial for improving one's credit score. Credit scores are significantly influenced by an individual's credit utilization ratio, which is the amount of credit currently being used compared to the total credit available. When credit card debts are reduced or paid off, this ratio decreases, leading to a more favorable credit score. A higher credit score not only reflects responsible credit management but also increases the likelihood of loan approval and can lead to more favorable loan terms. Therefore, clearing credit card debts can create a solid foundation for future borrowing by enhancing an individual's creditworthiness.