Accounting is not a simple job. It involves numbers and principles that would take years to master. Although accounting is a well-known process, many people still believe a few myths in the field. Let’s take a closer look at some of the misconceptions you may have about accounting.
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Accounting and Math
People would probably take one look at accounting and assume that it’s all about mathematics, like geometry or calculus. But no. Accountants use math in accounting, but they also use knowledge in other fields such as business and government processes. Accounting not only looks at numbers, but also at assets, liabilities, and so on and so forth. CPAs would tell you that accounting is more about research and storytelling than math.
The identity of accountants
A person who’s trained in prepping taxes isn’t necessarily an accountant. An IRS agent isn’t necessarily an accountant. They could be, but people regularly equate accountants with these individuals. Accountants can work on their own, or in companies, or in the government. They’re not limited to a few fields. Financial planners are also mistaken to be accountants, probably because accountants review a lot of finances in their work. It should be noted however that being an accountant is a big plus for some jobs, such as being a financial advisor or a Chief Financial Officer.
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Hello! Steve Sorensen here, Colorado-based CPA and business writer. For more about all things business, check out this page.