What are the two sides of a financial transaction called in accounting?

In accounting, every financial transaction consists of two components that reflect a dual entry system, which is foundational to the accounting framework known as double-entry bookkeeping. These two components are referred to as debits and credits.

When a transaction occurs, it is recorded in two parts: a debit entry in one account and a credit entry in another. This ensures that the accounting equation (Assets = Liabilities + Equity) remains balanced. For example, if a business purchases inventory for cash, the inventory account is debited (increasing assets) while the cash account is credited (decreasing assets).

Understanding debits and credits is crucial for accurately recording and interpreting the financial activities of a business, enabling accountants and financial professionals to maintain orderly and accurate financial records. Thus, recognizing debits and credits as the two sides of a transaction is fundamental to grasping more complex accounting concepts.