The objective of accounting theory is to provide a framework for the accounting profession to adhere to in order to ensure that accurate and reliable financial statements are produced. Accounting theory focuses on providing a deeper understanding of the accounting process and providing guidance to practitioners in a range of scenarios. The main areas that it covers are rules pertaining to the measurement of transactions, recognition of transactions and the basis of reporting.

At its core, accounting theory seeks to answer questions such as what, when and why should financial information be recorded and reported. It helps to establish record-keeping standards, recognizing and recording transactions, and applying the proper terminology and calculation methods.

Moreover, accounting theory also allows for certain rules to be established that govern how certain levels of information should be measured and determined. It provides a set of guidelines for the recording and reporting of transactions, based on different assumptions and methods of conducting business.

Accounting theory allows for the development of theoretical arguments in order to explain the effect of economic factors and the impact of particular accounting practices on decision making. This helps to provide more information about how certain practices are better than others and how certain decisions should be made to ensure the greatest accuracy.

In addition, accounting theory helps decision makers to anticipate what their outcomes might be when an accounting practice is changed and to identify possible risks associated with those changes. This enables a more effective way of making decisions and allows decision makers to identify and address any potential problems before those problems become an issue.

Accounting theory is the foundation of financial reporting and a crucial part of any business. It provides a critical tool for businesses to use for the successful tracking, reporting, and analysis of their financial activities. Accounting theory can not only be used to ensure a business’s operations are compliant, but also to maximize the efficacy of those operations in the long-term.