This book has been written for the business studies student who wishes to study accounting but may not necessarily wish to specialize in this subject. Although the student may ultimately decide to specialize in another area it is almost certain that he or she will need to understand the role of accounting within a business and will need to use accounting information in order to make informed economic decisions. This book aims to satisfy this need. Given this perspective, it seemed inappropriate when writing this book to provide a detailed explanation of the way in which we record financial transactions and the nature of accounting systems. Although the authors have included a chapter on the recording of financial practice, it is designed to provide the reader with an overview rather than a comprehensive picture of the recording process. Users of accounting still require a basic understanding of its underlying principles, and should be aware of the impact of most business transactions on the accounting statements prepared. This book aims to satisfy both needs.