This review is for Essentials of Accounting, 9th edition. This accounting introduction is in WORKBOOK format. As the concepts are introduced you are asked to fill in answers to questions related to the just-introduced concepts. Answers are immediately available along the right portion of the page. I found the treatments to be exactly what I was looking for: the fundamental of the accounting process. If you already have mastered accounting fundamentals, maybe you could pass on this workbook. However, I found that the method used in the workbook made clear how the concept fit into the overall process and I believe it will be very helpful as I progress into more advanced areas. Each chapter is followed with a short quiz; the answers available at the back of the book along with certain exhibits used in chapters along the way. For me the use of this workbook for introductory accounting students and people brushing up on the subject would be highly recommended.
Review #2
Great for a review, intro, or refresher
If you need a quick review or refresher, this is a simple book. I used it when I was starting to study for the CFA exams since I hadn't used any accounting since business school. It's a good guide for CFA prep, before business school, or for a quick refresher if you've had exposure to accounting before. Recommended.
Review #3
Make sure you buy the other book!
This version of the Essentials of Accounting book requires you to purchase an additional booklet with the worksheets and exhibits that are absolutely essential for using this workbook. Since this isn't stated anywhere, and the additional book can cost near $50, I gave this book a low rating. (And yes, perhaps these worksheets are included in later editions, but I'm reviewing this edition.)
As for the usefulness of this book, I found it completely dull, and annoying to work with, having to cover the side of the page all the time. I bought it as a review for a graduate financial accounting class I was getting ready to take, and I tried to use it, and just couldn't, and did just fine in the class without ever using this book.
