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Describe How to Record Business Transactions Using the Accounting Equation.

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Describe how to record business transactions using the accounting equation.

A business transaction is described as any event or exchange that has a financial impact on the business entity.. These transactions are recorded by accountants in many ways and are ultimately reported in financial statements. The basic rule of thumb in accounting is: assets equal liabilities plus owner’s equity (A = L + E). The entries and preparation of business transactions, and how they affect the entity’s operations, are generated using this equation.
The equilibrium of the accounting equation must always be maintained at any given time or accounting period. For example, the sale of a computer for cash means an increase to the Cash account (Asset) and an increase in Revenue (or Equity). This is because cash earned is a valuable resource and provides income, thus, an increase to both sides of the equation. Another example is a payment made to a vendor on account results in a decrease in Cash, and a decrease in Accounts Payable (Liabilities). The cash is going out the door (which is obviously a loss) and liabilities have been met which is also a reduction.

First the business transactions are recorded or journalized, in the general journal in chronological order. Then, these are transferred to the general ledger which groups all accounts and shows their balances. Once posted, the business transactions are now properly organized to be efficiently utilized for the preparation of financial statements.

For the Income Statement, an entity’s net income or loss is shown. This is generated by simply subtracting expenses from revenue. The Balance Sheet directly reflects the accounting equation and is exactly what it says: the total balance where assets equal liabilities plus equity. This financial report reflects a specific point in time, not an accounting period or date range of changes

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