BASIC ACCOUNTING

The second volume of an extensive instructional course in accounting.

Mostyn (Accounting/Mission Coll.; Accounting Ace 911, 2001, etc.) continues the updated course of study established in his previous book. This volume moves beyond the foundational topics covered in the first; its seven sections address such subjects as merchandising operations, analyzing key accounts, analyzing and planning cash flow, and long-term liabilities. As in the first volume, the author explains everything in clear, straightforward terms and graphics. The book’s relatively large page size (8.5 by 11 inches) lends itself to the accounting examples, which include numerous spreadsheets, tables, and charts. The overall layout of the book remains inviting, with clearly delineated sections, two different colors of text, frequent but appropriately used bold type, and sidebars. Volume 2 closely follows the structural arrangement of Volume 1, with sections divided into specific “Learning Goals,” such as “Prepare Closing Entries” and “Record, Report, and Control Merchandise Inventory.” Also mirroring the first book, the Learning Goal chapters include specific examples, useful advice, and self-assessment tools; there’s also another CD of additional resources. The primary difference between this book and Volume 1 is that this one tackles subject matter that’s far more advanced and thus requires more extensive explanation. For example, the book’s first section, “Adjusting the Accounts,” includes a five-part appendix that digs into the details of such topics as prepaid expenses, unearned revenue, depreciation, and accrued revenues and expenses and provides step-by-step instructions for dealing with each of them. Overall, Mostyn’s instructive text, extensive examples, and interspersed self-tests provide a solid basis for learning, and taken together, this volume and its companion should offer students total immersion in its subject.

The conclusion of an expansive, all-inclusive educational program.