Description of Transaction

Oct 13, 2025 by wbrum.org 105 views

As a business owner or an accountant, it is essential to understand the basics of recording transactions in a business setting. This includes knowing which column to record transactions in, especially when it comes to withdrawals from a checking account. In this article, we will explore the concept of recording transactions and provide a step-by-step guide on how to record a withdrawal from a checking account.

Understanding the Columns

When recording transactions, it is crucial to understand the different columns used in a general ledger. The columns typically include:

Check Number: This column is used to record the check number associated with the transaction.
Date: This column is used to record the date of the transaction.
Description of Transaction: This column is used to describe the transaction in detail.
Debit (Dr): This column is used to record debit transactions, which are transactions that increase an asset or expense account.
Credit (Cr): This column is used to record credit transactions, which are transactions that decrease an asset or increase a liability or equity account.

Recording a Withdrawal from a Checking Account

When Beth withdrew $35 from her checking account, she needs to record the transaction in the correct column. Since she is withdrawing cash from her account, this is a debit transaction. The debit transaction will increase the cash account, which is an asset account.

Step 1: Identify the Account

The first step is to identify the account that needs to be debited. In this case, the account is the cash account, which is an asset account.

Step 2: Determine the Debit Amount

The next step is to determine the debit amount. In this case, the debit amount is $35, which is the amount withdrawn from the checking account.

Step 3: Record the Transaction

The final step is to record the transaction in the correct column. Since this is a debit transaction, the transaction will be recorded in the debit column.

Example

Here is an example of how the transaction would be recorded:

Check Number	Date	Description of Transaction	Debit (Dr)	Credit (Cr)
		Withdrawal of $35 from checking account	$35

Conclusion

Recording transactions in a business setting requires a clear understanding of the different columns used in a general ledger. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can ensure that transactions are recorded accurately and in the correct column. Remember, debit transactions increase an asset or expense account, while credit transactions decrease an asset or increase a liability or equity account.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When recording transactions, it is essential to avoid common mistakes. Some common mistakes include:

Recording debit transactions in the credit column
Recording credit transactions in the debit column
Failing to identify the correct account to debit or credit
Failing to determine the correct debit or credit amount

Best Practices

To ensure accurate recording of transactions, follow these best practices:

Always identify the correct account to debit or credit
Determine the correct debit or credit amount
Record debit transactions in the debit column
Record credit transactions in the credit column
Use clear and concise descriptions of transactions

Conclusion

As a business owner or an accountant, it is essential to understand the basics of recording transactions in a business setting. In this article, we will provide a Q&A section to help clarify any doubts and provide additional information on recording transactions.

Q: What is the difference between a debit and a credit transaction?

A: A debit transaction is a transaction that increases an asset or expense account, while a credit transaction is a transaction that decreases an asset or increases a liability or equity account.

Q: How do I determine whether a transaction is a debit or a credit?

A: To determine whether a transaction is a debit or a credit, you need to identify the account that is being affected by the transaction. If the account is being increased, it is a debit transaction. If the account is being decreased, it is a credit transaction.

Q: What is the purpose of the description of transaction column?

A: The description of transaction column is used to provide a clear and concise description of the transaction. This helps to identify the transaction and ensure that it is recorded accurately.

Q: Can I record a transaction in both the debit and credit columns?

A: No, you cannot record a transaction in both the debit and credit columns. A transaction must be recorded in either the debit column or the credit column, but not both.

Q: What happens if I record a transaction incorrectly?

A: If you record a transaction incorrectly, it can have serious consequences for your business. It is essential to review your transactions regularly to ensure that they are accurate and recorded correctly.

Q: How do I ensure that my transactions are recorded accurately?

A: To ensure that your transactions are recorded accurately, follow these best practices:

Always identify the correct account to debit or credit
Determine the correct debit or credit amount
Record debit transactions in the debit column
Record credit transactions in the credit column
Use clear and concise descriptions of transactions

Q: Can I use a computerized accounting system to record transactions?

A: Yes, you can use a computerized accounting system to record transactions. Computerized accounting systems can help to streamline the recording process and reduce errors.

Q: What are the benefits of using a computerized accounting system?

A: The benefits of using a computerized accounting system include:

Improved accuracy
Increased efficiency
Reduced errors
Enhanced security
Better reporting and analysis capabilities

Q: How do I choose the right computerized accounting system for my business?

A: To choose the right computerized accounting system for your business, consider the following factors:

Ease of use
Features and functionality
Cost
Support and training
Integration with other business systems

Q: Can I use a cloud-based accounting system to record transactions?

A: Yes, you can use a cloud-based accounting system to record transactions. Cloud-based accounting systems can provide access to your financial data from anywhere and at any time.

Q: What are the benefits of using a cloud-based accounting system?

A: The benefits of using a cloud-based accounting system include:

Improved accessibility
Increased flexibility
Enhanced collaboration
Better scalability
Reduced costs

Conclusion

Recording transactions in a business setting requires a clear understanding of the different columns used in a general ledger. By following the steps outlined in this article and avoiding common mistakes, you can ensure that transactions are recorded accurately and in the correct column. Remember, debit transactions increase an asset or expense account, while credit transactions decrease an asset or increase a liability or equity account.