More than three years of teaching and working experience in the Financial services industry.
Chartered Accountant with 7 years of practical accounting and audit experience in Big 4, located in Punggol.
17+ years of working experience in Accounts, Audit, and Tax in various sectors and tutored.
Chartered Accountant | Expert tutor in Finance, Audit, and Tax | Empowering future professionals
The purpose of accounting is to provide financial information that helps businesses and organizations make informed decisions. This information is used to measure a company's financial performance, record and classify transactions, and prepare financial statements. Accounting plays a critical role in business by providing stakeholders with a transparent and accurate picture of the company's financial health. This information is used to evaluate the company's ability to pay its debts, invest in new opportunities, and make strategic decisions.
The role of an accountant is to maintain and analyze a company's financial records and ensure that they are accurate and in compliance with accounting standards and regulations. They are responsible for preparing financial statements, tax returns, and other financial reports that provide valuable information to stakeholders. Accountants differ from other finance-related professions, such as financial analysts and investment bankers, in that they focus on the day-to-day maintenance of a company's financial records, while others focus on providing financial advice and analysis.
Accounting information plays a critical role in decision making for businesses and organizations. By providing a clear and accurate picture of the company's financial health, accounting information helps stakeholders evaluate the company's ability to pay its debts, invest in new opportunities, and make strategic decisions. This information is used to determine the company's financial strengths and weaknesses, identify areas for improvement, and develop a strategy for future growth and success.
There are several current trends and advancements in accounting technology and practices that are worth mentioning. These include:
Automation and Artificial Intelligence (AI): technology is revolutionizing the way accounting is done, with many tasks being automated and performed by AI systems.
Cloud computing: many businesses and organizations are moving their accounting systems to the cloud, which provides greater flexibility and security.
Increased focus on sustainability and corporate social responsibility (CSR): companies are becoming more focused on sustainability and CSR, and are using accounting information to track and report on their efforts in these areas.
Big data analytics: accounting is increasingly using big data analytics to provide more meaningful and actionable information to stakeholders.
To prepare for and succeed in a career in accounting, it is important to have a strong foundation in the principles and concepts of the subject. This can be achieved through formal education and practical experience. Additionally, staying up-to-date with the latest industry trends and developments, as well as developing strong communication and problem-solving skills, can also help you succeed in a career in accounting. Networking with other professionals in the field and becoming certified through organizations such as the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) can also increase your chances of success.
Management Accounting is a branch of accounting that focuses on providing financial information to internal stakeholders within an organisation to support decision-making and performance evaluation. It involves analysing and interpreting financial data, preparing budgets and forecasts, and developing financial strategies.
It is essential to learn management accounting as it provides insights into a company's financial performance and health, allowing managers to make informed decisions and plan for the future. Understanding management accounting also provides a competitive advantage in the job market, as it is a sought-after skill in many industries.
To improve your understanding of management accounting, start by building a solid foundation in the basics. This includes understanding financial statements, cost concepts, and budgeting. Then, practice applying these concepts through real-life examples and case studies.
Utilise online resources such as videos, articles, and practice exercises to reinforce your understanding. Collaborate with peers and instructors to discuss and clarify confusing topics. Take advantage of internships or job opportunities to gain practical experience. Finally, consider pursuing additional education or certification in management accounting to deepen your knowledge and improve your job prospects.
Effective study techniques for learning management accounting include building a strong foundation in the basics, practising problem-solving, and utilising various resources. Start by understanding the fundamental concepts of financial accounting, cost accounting, and budgeting.
Practice applying these concepts through real-life examples and case studies. Utilise online resources such as videos, articles, and practice exercises to reinforce your understanding. Collaborate with peers and instructors to discuss and clarify confusing topics.
Create summaries, outlines, or flashcards to review and memorise key concepts. Participate in group discussions, debates, or presentations to better understand the subject.
Lastly, seek feedback and continuously evaluate your progress to identify areas for improvement.