Book excerpt: The 2011 Accounting Desk Book is a practical readable guide that provides insightful and clear explanations for CPAs and financial services professionals on key areas of daily accounting practice. It explores dozens of important accounting and finance issues from IRS practice to equity strategies; from budgeting to depreciation; from e-commerce to expert witness testimony. The Desk Book offers straightforward discussion of significant developments that help the accountant understand and apply relevant accounting principles, legal requirements and tax rules. It discusses important pronouncements from the FASB, GASB and the IASB, along with updated information on PCAOB activities. This handy guide examines the financial reporting presentation requirements and required disclosures and reviews and updates the reader on specialized accounting topics needed for the proper treatment of a transaction. The book provides information that is key to the consideration of an engagement in a new area of practice or to field a client's question. New developments are discussed within the context of the topics in each chapter.