Which statement best describes double-entry accounting?

Double-entry accounting is best described as a system where every transaction affects at least two accounts. This fundamental principle ensures that the accounting equation—assets = liabilities + equity—remains balanced after each transaction. Under this system, when a transaction takes place, it is recorded in two accounts with equal debit and credit entries, reflecting the dual nature of financial transactions.

For example, if a business purchases inventory with cash, one account (inventory) is debited to reflect an increase in assets, while another account (cash) is credited to show a decrease in assets. This dual approach provides a more comprehensive view of a company's financial position and helps in maintaining accuracy and detecting errors, as it allows for cross-verification when the books are balanced.

The other statements do not effectively represent the nature of double-entry accounting. A system affecting only one account does not capture the necessary dual aspect of transactions. Focusing solely on cash transactions ignores the broader scope of accounting that includes credit and debit transactions. Lastly, while double-entry accounting can simplify bookkeeping in some respects, this characterization does not encompass the core definition and benefits of the system.