How to Learn the Basics of Accounting & Bookkeeping
Learning the basics of accounting and bookkeeping can be very rewarding because these skills are practical and marketable. Even if you don't want to be an accountant, the financial knowledge can help you manage a business or a department better.
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Classes
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The traditional way to learn basic accounting is to take classes at your local junior or community college. You should plan on taking at least two introductory courses in accounting to be able to grasp the fundamentals. Adult schools also may offer accounting or bookkeeping courses that can be helpful to understand the concepts. Do your homework. Accounting is learned by doing, not just going to classes -- the more you practice, the faster and better you grasp the concepts.
Online
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You could also take online classes about accounting. Many colleges offer introduction to accounting courses through this medium. If you select this route, make sure that the school is located in your state, so that you don't pay out-of-state fees. As with live classes, you should focus on practicing as you learn. Don't try to jump around -- do a step at a time. If you find yourself lost, then you haven't really learned something from past lessons -- review all prior lessons.
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Tutorials
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Some people learn well through tutorials -- online or with books. Tutorials have the advantage of letting you learn at your own pace, and, if you need to go back to check out some concepts, you can easily do that. Chooset tutorials that offer plenty of problems and quizzes with detailed answers so that you learn by doing. Quite a few individuals first try a tutorial, and, if they don't grasp the information, then they look for alternate means to learn the topic.
Specific Topics
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When looking for basic accounting and bookkeeping courses, be sure that the courses cover the debits, credits, chart of accounts and the entire accounting cycle, including inventory issues. Compilation of financial statements should also be part of the course work along with payroll and computerized accounting basics. After taking the courses, you should be able to handle a small business's bookkeeping functions, including bank reconciliations.
Software Training
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Another way to learn accounting is through accounting software training. These courses are offered on popular programs, and, as you learn how to use the program, you learn the basics of accounting. You may not get as much theory as you would get in accounting courses, but you may learn what is required. These courses may be offered by program developers, vendors and private schools; your local adult school or community college may offer these classes as well.
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