Accounting is the process of recording, summarizing, analyzing, and reporting financial transactions of a business or organization. It involves keeping track of all the money that flows in and out of the business and organizing this information in a systematic way to understand the financial health and performance of the entity.

Accounting serves several key purposes

1. Recording Transactions – Accounting involves recording all financial transactions, such as sales, purchases, expenses, and payments, in a structured manner. This ensures that there is a complete and accurate record of all business activities.

2. Summarizing Financial Information – Once transactions are recorded, accounting summarizes this information into financial statements, such as the income statement, balance sheet, and cash flow statement. These statements provide a snapshot of the company’s financial position and performance.

3. Analyzing Financial Data – Accountants analyze financial data to assess the company’s profitability, liquidity, solvency, and overall financial health. They use various financial ratios and metrics to interpret the information and make informed decisions.

4. Reporting to Stakeholders – Accounting involves preparing and presenting financial reports to stakeholders, including management, investors, creditors, regulators, and other interested parties. These reports help stakeholders understand how the business is performing and make decisions about its future.