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Bookkeeping Basics

Intuit Academy Team

This is the first course in a series of four that will give you the skills needed to start your career in bookkeeping. If you have a passion for helping clients solve problems, this course is for you. In this course, you will be introduced to the role of a bookkeeper and learn what bookkeeping professionals do every day. You will dive into the accounting concepts and terms that will provide the foundation for the next three courses. You will learn how to work your way through the accounting cycle and be able to read and produce key financial statements.

By the end of this course, you will be able to:

Read more

This is the first course in a series of four that will give you the skills needed to start your career in bookkeeping. If you have a passion for helping clients solve problems, this course is for you. In this course, you will be introduced to the role of a bookkeeper and learn what bookkeeping professionals do every day. You will dive into the accounting concepts and terms that will provide the foundation for the next three courses. You will learn how to work your way through the accounting cycle and be able to read and produce key financial statements.

By the end of this course, you will be able to:

-Define accounting and the concepts of accounting measurement

-Explain the role of a bookkeeper and common bookkeeping tasks and responsibilities

-Summarize the double entry accounting method

-Explain the ethical and social responsibilities of bookkeepers in ensuring the integrity of financial information.

No previous bookkeeping or accounting experience required.

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What's inside

Syllabus

Accounting Concepts and Measurement
In this module, you'll be introduced to the role of a bookkeeper and gain an understanding of how to use the accounting equation and double-entry accounting.
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Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Introduces key accounting concepts, which is relevant to bookkeeping
Beginners can expect to build foundational bookkeeping knowledge
Introduces the role and day-to-day tasks of a bookkeeper
Despite the name, no prior accounting or bookkeeping experience is required

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Reviews summary

Foundational bookkeeping for beginners

According to learners, 'Bookkeeping Basics' is a positive and highly effective starting point for anyone new to the field, consistently praised for its clear explanations of core accounting concepts like the accounting equation and double-entry accounting. Students say the course offers a strong foundational knowledge, with well-structured content and a manageable pace that makes complex topics accessible. While it effectively prepares beginners for further study, some suggest that those with prior experience may find the content too basic, emphasizing its role as a fundamental introduction rather than an advanced deep dive. The practical examples and helpful instructors are frequently highlighted as key strengths.
Provides sufficient overview, but not deep dives.
"It barely scratched the surface of topics like financial statements. I felt it was just a quick overview without enough depth..."
"Very comprehensive for a basic course. The module on ethical responsibilities was a nice touch, often overlooked."
"Solid introduction to bookkeeping. The content is easy to follow and the pace is good for beginners."
Perfectly suited for those with no prior experience.
"Perfect for absolute beginners! I had zero accounting background and now I understand the core concepts."
"As a complete novice, this course was exactly what I needed to get started in bookkeeping."
"I found the course content to be very helpful for my learning, especially as a new learner to the subject matter."
Provides essential skills for a bookkeeping career.
"This course is a fantastic starting point for anyone looking to understand bookkeeping. I feel much more confident about pursuing a career in this field now."
"It’s truly for beginners, providing a solid introduction to the core principles of bookkeeping."
"I had zero accounting background and now I understand the core concepts. The way they explain the accounting cycle... is very logical and easy to grasp."
Concepts are presented accessibly for beginners.
"The instructor explains complex concepts like double-entry accounting in a very clear, easy-to-digest manner."
"I've always struggled with financial concepts, but this made bookkeeping basics feel accessible with practical examples."
"I particularly found the explanations of the accounting equation and double-entry system to be crystal clear. The course truly builds a strong foundation."
May lack depth for learners with prior knowledge.
"If you have any prior knowledge, you might find it a bit slow at times."
"Some parts felt a little too basic and repetitive. I was hoping for more advanced application or case studies..."
"I appreciate the foundational knowledge, but I'll need more advanced courses to feel truly ready for a career."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Bookkeeping Basics with these activities:
Organize your course materials
Organizing your course materials can help you stay on top of your studies and find the information you need quickly and easily.
Show steps
  • Gather all of your course materials, such as your syllabus, notes, readings, and assignments.
  • Create a system for organizing your materials, such as using folders or a binder.
  • Label your materials clearly so that you can easily find what you need.
Review your notes from previous accounting courses
Reviewing your notes from previous accounting courses can help you refresh your memory and identify areas where you need additional support.
Show steps
  • Gather your notes from previous accounting courses.
  • Skim through your notes to refresh your memory.
  • Focus on the topics that are most relevant to the current course.
Create a glossary of accounting terms
Creating a glossary of accounting terms can help you build a solid foundation in the language of accounting and improve your understanding of the subject matter.
Browse courses on Accounting Terminology
Show steps
  • Identify the key accounting terms that you need to know.
  • Write a definition for each term.
  • Organize your glossary alphabetically or by category.
Six other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all nine activities
Watch video tutorials on accounting principles
Video tutorials can provide a clear and engaging way to learn about the fundamental principles of accounting.
Browse courses on Accounting Principles
Show steps
  • Search for video tutorials on accounting principles.
  • Choose a few tutorials that cover the topics you need to learn.
  • Watch the tutorials and take notes.
Create a flowchart of the accounting cycle
By creating a visual representation of the accounting cycle, you can gain a deeper understanding of the flow of transactions and the relationships between different financial statements.
Browse courses on Accounting Cycle
Show steps
  • List the steps of the accounting cycle in order.
  • Draw a flowchart diagram that shows the connections between the steps.
  • Label the flowchart with descriptions of each step.
Practice recording transactions in the general journal and general ledger
This activity will help you master the basics of recording transactions in the general journal and general ledger, which are essential skills for bookkeepers.
Browse courses on General Journal
Show steps
  • Review the steps of the accounting cycle.
  • Set up a general journal and general ledger template.
  • Record a series of transactions in the general journal.
  • Post the transactions to the general ledger.
  • Prepare a trial balance.
Create a presentation on the different types of accounting methods
By creating a presentation on the different types of accounting methods, you can gain a deeper understanding of the options available to businesses and the factors that influence their choice of method.
Browse courses on Accounting Principles
Show steps
  • Research the different types of accounting methods.
  • Create a PowerPoint or Google Slides presentation with your findings.
  • Include examples of businesses that use each method.
  • Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of each method.
Solve practice problems on financial statement analysis
Solving practice problems can help you develop the skills you need to analyze financial statements and make informed decisions.
Browse courses on Financial Statement Analysis
Show steps
  • Find practice problems online or in textbooks.
  • Solve the problems using the techniques you have learned in class.
  • Check your answers against the provided solutions.
Analyze a balance sheet and income statement
By analyzing a balance sheet and income statement, you can gain a deeper understanding of a company's financial health and performance.
Browse courses on Balance Sheet
Show steps
  • Gather a balance sheet and income statement from a company's website or financial database.
  • Review the balance sheet and identify the company's assets, liabilities, and equity.
  • Review the income statement and identify the company's revenues, expenses, and net income.
  • Calculate key financial ratios and metrics.
  • Write a brief report summarizing your findings.

Career center

Learners who complete Bookkeeping Basics will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Bookkeeper
A Bookkeeper is responsible for maintaining accurate financial records for a business. They track income and expenses, prepare financial statements, and ensure that all accounting procedures are followed. This course provides a strong foundation in bookkeeping principles and practices, making it an excellent starting point for anyone who wants to enter this field.
See salaries and explore the career path for Bookkeeper
Accounting Clerk
An Accounting Clerk is responsible for performing basic accounting tasks, such as recording transactions, preparing invoices, and reconciling bank statements. This course provides the skills needed to perform these tasks accurately and efficiently.
See salaries and explore the career path for Accounting Clerk
Junior Accountant
A Junior Accountant is responsible for assisting with more complex accounting tasks, such as preparing financial statements and conducting audits. This course provides the foundation needed to succeed in this role, and can help prepare you for more advanced accounting positions.
See salaries and explore the career path for Junior Accountant
Staff Accountant
A Staff Accountant is responsible for performing a variety of accounting tasks, such as preparing financial statements, conducting audits, and managing accounts payable and receivable. This course provides the skills needed to succeed in this role, and can help prepare you for more advanced accounting positions.
See salaries and explore the career path for Staff Accountant
Accountant
An Accountant is responsible for managing the financial affairs of a business. They prepare financial statements, conduct audits, and provide financial advice. This course provides the foundation needed to succeed in this role, and can help prepare you for more advanced accounting positions.
See salaries and explore the career path for Accountant
Auditor
An Auditor is responsible for examining the financial records of a business to ensure that they are accurate and compliant with regulations. This course provides the foundation needed to succeed in this role, and can help prepare you for more advanced auditing positions.
See salaries and explore the career path for Auditor
Financial Analyst
A Financial Analyst is responsible for analyzing financial data to make investment recommendations. This course provides the foundation needed to succeed in this role, and can help prepare you for more advanced financial analysis positions.
See salaries and explore the career path for Financial Analyst
Tax Accountant
A Tax Accountant is responsible for preparing tax returns and advising clients on tax matters. This course provides the foundation needed to succeed in this role, and can help prepare you for more advanced tax accounting positions.
See salaries and explore the career path for Tax Accountant
Management Accountant
A Management Accountant is responsible for providing financial information to management to help them make informed decisions. This course provides the foundation needed to succeed in this role, and can help prepare you for more advanced management accounting positions.
See salaries and explore the career path for Management Accountant
Forensic Accountant
A Forensic Accountant is responsible for investigating financial crimes and providing expert testimony in court. This course provides the foundation needed to succeed in this role, and can help prepare you for more advanced forensic accounting positions.
See salaries and explore the career path for Forensic Accountant
Budget Analyst
A Budget Analyst is responsible for preparing and managing budgets. This course provides the foundation needed to succeed in this role, and can help prepare you for more advanced budget analysis positions.
See salaries and explore the career path for Budget Analyst
Cost Accountant
A Cost Accountant is responsible for analyzing and reporting on the costs of a business. This course provides the foundation needed to succeed in this role, and can help prepare you for more advanced cost accounting positions.
See salaries and explore the career path for Cost Accountant
Financial Planner
A Financial Planner is responsible for helping clients plan for their financial future. This course provides the foundation needed to succeed in this role, and can help prepare you for more advanced financial planning positions.
See salaries and explore the career path for Financial Planner
Investment Banker
An Investment Banker is responsible for advising clients on mergers and acquisitions, and other financial transactions. This course provides the foundation needed to succeed in this role, and can help prepare you for more advanced investment banking positions.
See salaries and explore the career path for Investment Banker
Loan Officer
A Loan Officer is responsible for evaluating and approving loan applications. This course provides the foundation needed to succeed in this role, and can help prepare you for more advanced loan officer positions.
See salaries and explore the career path for Loan Officer

Reading list

We've selected eight books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Bookkeeping Basics.
Cover image
AICPA Professional Standards, 2020, Volumes 1 - 3
Save
This code of ethics establishes the professional standards of conduct for CPAs in the United States. It valuable resource for accountants seeking to understand their ethical responsibilities and maintain integrity in their practice.
AICPA Professional Standards, 2020, Volumes 1 - 3
Paperback
Check
AICPA Professional Standards, 2020, Volumes 1 - 3
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
The Intelligent Investor, 3rd Ed.
Save
This classic investment book introduces the principles of value investing, a long-term investment strategy that focuses on buying stocks at a discount to their intrinsic value. It provides valuable insights for investors of all levels, helping them to make informed investment decisions and achieve long-term financial success.
The Intelligent Investor, 3rd Ed.: The Definitive...
Hardcover
$$
Cover image
Security Analysis, Seventh Edition: Principles and...
Save
This comprehensive textbook on security analysis provides a detailed framework for evaluating the investment potential of stocks, bonds, and other securities. It covers topics such as financial statement analysis, valuation, and risk assessment, making it an essential resource for professionals in the investment industry.
Security Analysis, Seventh Edition: Principles and...
Hardcover
$$$
Security Analysis, Seventh Edition: Principles and...
Kindle Edition
$$$
Fit and Fashionable Practice Set
Save
This comprehensive textbook offers an in-depth exploration of financial accounting principles and practices. It covers topics such as the accounting cycle, financial statements, and accounting theory, providing a thorough understanding of the field.
Fit and Fashionable Practice Set
Paperback
Check
Fit and Fashionable Practice Set
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
The Little Book of Picking Top Stocks
Save
This comprehensive guide to financial statement analysis provides investors, analysts, and financial professionals with a framework for evaluating the financial health and performance of companies. It covers topics such as ratio analysis, financial modeling, and valuation, enabling readers to make informed investment decisions.
The Little Book of Picking Top Stocks: How to Spot...
Hardcover
$$
The Little Book of Picking Top Stocks: How to Spot...
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
Financial Accounting
Save
This comprehensive textbook covers the fundamental concepts of management accounting, including cost accounting, budgeting, and performance evaluation. It provides a practical understanding of how accounting information is used for decision-making and planning within organizations.
Financial Accounting, 10th Edition
Hardcover
$$
Financial Accounting
Hardcover
$$
Financial Accounting, Global Edition
Paperback
$$$
NEW MyLab Accounting with Pearson eText -- Access...
Printed Access Code
$$$$
Financial Accounting, Fifth Canadian Edition (5th...
Hardcover
$$
Financial Accounting
Paperback
$$$$
Financial Accounting plus MyAccountingLab with...
Paperback
$$
Financial Accounting, Fifth Canadian Edition Plus...
Paperback
$$
Cover image
Introduction to Management Accounting
Save
This advanced textbook offers a comprehensive treatment of cost accounting principles and practices. It covers topics such as cost classification, cost allocation, and cost control, providing a solid foundation for professionals in accounting and finance.
Introduction to Management Accounting
Kindle Edition
$$$
Introduction to Management Accounting with...
Paperback
$$
Cover image
Accounting All-in-One For Dummies (+ Videos and...
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of accounting and finance concepts, making it a valuable resource for beginners in the field. It covers the basics of bookkeeping, financial statements, and accounting principles, providing a solid foundation for further learning.
Accounting All-in-One For Dummies (+ Videos and...
Paperback
$$
Accounting All-in-One For Dummies (+ Videos and...
Kindle Edition
$$

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Course image
Level
Introductory
Via
Coursera
Institution
Intuit
Instructor
Intuit Academy Team
Language
English
Transcripts
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This course belongs to a collection called Intuit Academy Bookkeeping. It's comprised of four courses:
  1. Assets in Accounting
  2. Liabilities and Equity in Accounting
  3. Bookkeeping Basics (viewing)
  4. Financial Statement Analysis
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Introduces key accounting concepts, which is relevant to bookkeeping
Beginners can expect to build foundational bookkeeping knowledge
Introduces the role and day-to-day tasks of a bookkeeper
Despite the name, no prior accounting or bookkeeping experience is required
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