Single entry system of bookkeeping which does not follow double entry system and as such, does not record or give effect to the two fold aspect of each and every transaction. Under this system of book keeping, generally a cash book and books to record personal accounts are only maintained. It is not really a system because under this system there may be no record of the some of the transactions and only partial record of some others. As such, single entry system of book-keeping is not perfect and frauds and mistakes can hardly be detected. This system is discussed in greater detail on Single Entry System Page. Proper results cannot be obtained by its use.
Advantages of Double Entry Over Single Entry System:
- In double entry system of bookkeeping as two fold aspect of each transaction is recorded in the books, a trial balance can be prepared to prove the arithmetical accuracy of the transaction. No trial balance can be prepared under single entry system and hence accuracy of books cannot be proved.
- In double entry system the risk of fraud or its non discovery is less. But under single entry system chances of fraud or mistake remaining undetected are very high.
- In double entry system a trading and profit and loss account can be prepared very easily. The proprietor can know the profit earned or loss suffered by has business. Under single entry system no trading and profit and loss account can be prepared scientifically and, hence, the proprietor will have no firm idea of profit earned or loss suffered.
- In double entry system a balance sheet can be prepared from the books of accounts. The correctness of assets and liabilities can be proved. The balance sheet called statement of affairs in a single entry system is prepared in an unsatisfactory manner. The assets and liabilities are not proved from records. Hence the correctness of assets and liabilities cannot be relied upon.