Explanation
Dual aspect is the foundation or basic principle of accounting. It provides the very basis for recording business transactions into the book of accounts. This concept states that every transaction has a dual or two-fold effect and should therefore be recorded at two places. In other words, at least two accounts will be involved in recording a transaction.
The double-entry system also requires that for all transactions, the amounts entered as debits must be equal to the amounts entered as credits.
The best example for this is the accounting equation.
Assets = Liabilities + Capital.
This proves that, everything the firm owns, it owns out to somebody.
The revenue recognition principle is a cornerstone of accrual accounting together with the matching principle. They both determine the accounting period in which revenues and expenses are recognized.
According to the principle, revenues are recognized when they are realized or realizable, and are earned (usually when goods are transferred or services rendered), no matter when cash is received.
In conclusion, the revenue shall be recognized at the point where sale is made, and not when the cash is received.
The convention of conservatism mean that the convention of caution, or the policy of playing safe. This principle requires that in the situation of uncertainty and doubt, the business transactions should be recorded in such a manner that the profits and assets are not overstated and losses and liabilities are not understated. The following are some examples:
1. Closing stock is valued at cost price or Net realisable value, whichever is lower.
2. Joint life insurance policy is shown only at surrender value as against the amount paid.
3. Provision for doubtful debt is created in anticipation of bad debts etc.
4. Provision for pending law suit against the firm, which may either be decided in its favour.
The cost concept requires that all assets are recorded in the book of accounts at their purchase price, which includes cost of acquisition, transportation, installation and making the asset ready to use.
For example, an old plant was purchased for Rs. 50 lakh, which is into the business of manufacturing detergent powder. The following were the other expenses incurred for its installation:
1. Transporting the plant to the factory site- Rs. 10,000
2. Repairs for bringing the plant into running position- Rs. 15,000
3. Installation- Rs. 25,000
The total amount at which the plant will be recorded in the books of account would be the sum of all these, i.e. Rs. 50,50,000.
Hence, the above statement is true.
The concept of conservatism (also called ‘prudence’) provides guidance for recording transactions in the book of accounts and is based on the policy of playing safe. The concept states that a conscious approach should be adopted in ascertaining income so that profits of the enterprise are not overstated.
The concept of conservatism requires that profits should not to be recorded until realised but all losses, even those which may have a remote possibility, are to be provided in the books of accounts.
The concept of going concern assumes that a business firm would continue to carry out its operations indefinitely, i.e. for a fairly long period of time and would not be liquidated in the foreseeable future.
This is an important assumption of accounting as it provides the very basis for showing the value of assets in the balance sheet. Conversely, this means the entity will not be forced to halt operations and liquidate its assets in the near term at what may be low fire-sale prices.
The best example to describe the concept is Accounting Equation.
In other words, the equation states that the assets of a business are always equal to the claims of owners and the outsiders.
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