What key document would you consult to understand all accounts used by a business?

The chart of accounts is essential because it provides a comprehensive listing of all accounts utilized by a business for its financial transactions. This document categorizes accounts into various types such as assets, liabilities, equity, revenues, and expenses, which allows for organized tracking and reporting of financial activity. Each account listed in the chart typically includes a unique identifier and a description, making it easier for accountants and financial professionals to understand the structure of the company's accounting system.

While the income statement details a company's revenues and expenses for a specific period, the balance sheet summarizes its assets, liabilities, and equity at a single point in time, and the cash flow statement outlines cash inflows and outflows. However, none of these documents provide an all-encompassing view of the accounts used by the business. The chart of accounts serves as the foundational reference for navigating through these financial statements and understanding how different accounts interact within the financial reporting structure.