Describe what a 'journal' is in accounting.

A journal in accounting serves as the initial point of entry for all financial transactions related to a business. It is a detailed record that captures each transaction in chronological order, providing essential information such as the date, accounts involved, amounts, and descriptions. Before transactions are categorized into specific accounts within the ledger, they are first entered in the journal. This process is crucial because it ensures that all financial events are documented systematically, allowing for accurate tracking and analysis of a company’s financial activities.

The purpose of journals is to maintain a complete and systematic record that can later be referenced and transferred to the relevant accounts in the ledger. By maintaining this detailed record, businesses can ensure adherence to the double-entry accounting system, where each transaction impacts at least two accounts, providing a foundation for accurate financial reporting.