The Field of Accounting

Accounting offers the qualified person an opportunity to move ahead quickly in today’s business world.

Accounting is a basic and vital element in every modern business. It records the growth or decline of the business.

The field of accounting is divided into three broad divisions: public, private and governmental.

A certified public accountant (CPA) – AmE or a chartered accountant – BrE must pass a series of examinations, after which he or she receives a certificate. The simple fact of having passed the certifying examination gives them an advantage over those who haven’t.

CPAs can offer their services to the public on an individual consultant basis for which they receive a fee. Some CPAs perform work for firms, corporations or government offices and receive a salary.

Private accountants, who are employees of individual businesses, handle the financial records of a business. They are responsible for preparing the financial statements and are salaried rather than paid a fee.

Government accountants are employed by governmental agencies. They are responsible for monitoring the receipt and payment of funds. All of these accountants work on a salary basis.

Salaried positions with business or government offer strong security, since salaried accountants are not affected by layoff or seasonal changes in the work load as are industrial or clerical workers.

Exercises in Word Study

Ex.1. Form nouns from the following verbs:

qualify, grow, divide, certify, examine, consult, employ.