In the ever-evolving business world, information is the cornerstone of effective management. The ability to analyse, interpret, and apply relevant data can define success and failure.

Management Accounting with Excel Applications is a comprehensive guide that introduces readers to the intricate world of management accounting. This discipline plays a pivotal role in an organisation’s planning, performance evaluation, control, and decision-making.

This book is aligned with the latest syllabus outlined by the National Education Policy (NEP) and is specifically tailored for students pursuing B.Com. (Hons.) and B.Com. degrees, focusing on those enrolled in the University of Delhi. Beyond its primary academic purpose, the book’s extensive coverage makes it an invaluable resource for anyone interested in management accounting, including those preparing for professional exams like CMA and CA. Additionally, it serves as an excellent tool for educators who seek a well-structured and practical approach to teaching management accounting and for professionals aiming to enhance their expertise in management accounting and Excel applications. In essence, this book caters to a broad audience, encompassing undergraduate students, exam candidates, and early-career professionals in the accounting and finance sectors.

The book thoroughly covers the foundational concepts of management accounting, examining its intersections with other critical areas such as financial and cost accounting, operational research, and tax planning.

The Present Publication is the Latest Edition, authored by Prof. (Dr) C.P. Gupta and Dr Vidisha Garg, with the following noteworthy features:

• [Structured Learning] The book is organised into seven detailed chapters that correspond directly with the university syllabus, covering essential topics. This structured approach ensures that readers gain a comprehensive understanding of each topic in a logical sequence
• [Practical Examples and Real-World Applications] Understanding complex concepts becomes easier with the book’s extensive use of examples, illustrations, and solved problems. Each chapter features a unique ‘Real-Life Episode’ section that brings theories to life, showing how management accounting principles are applied in real business scenarios
• [Excel Integration] In a digital age, proficiency in Excel is a must for any aspiring management accountant. This book goes beyond traditional teaching by incorporating ‘Excel Applications,’ where students learn to use Excel for various accounting functions. These sections provide practical insights into how technology can be leveraged to enhance decision-making and efficiency
• [Logical and Clear Explanations] A standout feature of this book is its focus on the logical breakdown of formulas and concepts. Students are guided step-by-step through the reasoning behind each calculation, fostering a deeper understanding that transcends rote learning
• [Supplementary Learning Tools] To support deeper learning, the book includes appendices that discuss the specific topics, providing additional context and explanations
• [Holistic Approach] The text doesn’t just prepare students for exams; it equips them with the skills and knowledge to excel professionally. The extensive coverage of examination questions for B.Com. (Hons.), B.Com., C.M.A., and C.A. ensures that students are well-prepared for various assessments.
• [Collaborative Effort] This book draws on the expertise of several authors who have significantly contributed to the field of management accounting, ensuring that readers receive a well-rounded and authoritative resource

The detailed chapter breakdown is as follows:

• Introduction to Management Accounting
  • Overview of management accounting, its objectives, nature, scope, and historical background
  • Understanding of the differences between management, financial, and cost accounting
  • Discussion on cost control, cost reduction, and cost management
• Budgeting and Budgetary Control
  • Comprehensive coverage of budgeting, including objectives, prerequisites, and various functional budgets
  • Detailed examination of alternative budgeting approaches and their merits and limitations
• Standard Costing and Variance Analysis
  • Explanation of standard costing, types of standards, variance analysis, and the advantages and limitations of these methods
  • In-depth analysis of material, labour, overhead, and sales variances
• Absorption Costing and Variable Costing
  • Discussion on product and period costs, income statement preparation, and profit reconciliation under different costing methods
  • Critical evaluation of the pros and cons of absorption and variable costing
• Cost-Volume-Profit (CVP) Analysis
  • Analysis of the interrelationship between cost, volume, and profit, including break-even analysis, margin of safety, and the impact of variable changes
• Decision-Making
  • Detailed understanding of decision-making processes, types of decisions, and relevant cost concepts
  • Application of decision-making principles to real-world business scenarios such as make or buy decisions, product mix decisions, and pricing strategies
• Responsibility Accounting
  • Explanation of responsibility accounting, types of responsibility centres, and measures of divisional performance
  • Discussion of financial and non-financial performance measures in management accounting
• Excel Applications
  • Practical guidance on using Excel for management accounting tasks, including data tables, scenario management, regression analysis, etc.