Matching Principle
Also called: matching concept, expense recognition principle
The matching principle requires expenses to be recorded in the same period as the revenue they helped produce. It's the reason a machine is depreciated over a decade rather than expensed on purchase, and why commission on a multi-year contract is spread rather than booked at signing. It's also the source of most accounting judgement, since matching requires estimating a future the accountant cannot see.
Where this is taught
Definitions are the trailer. These free levels turn Matching Principle into something you play — one bite-size lesson, with worked examples, a quiz and XP.