The challenge
Create two fictional records: a small business ledger and a bank statement. Introduce timing differences and a duplicate. Build a worksheet that identifies and explains each difference.
What to make
- Clearly labelled fictional source records
- A formula-based reconciliation with checks
- A concise exception report and proposed next actions
How to approach it
Write the question and scope first. Make a rough version using tools you can access, then ask another person to review it. Keep the original alongside your revision so you can explain the difference. Document any assumptions and use fictional or appropriately licensed public material.
Review your work
Can you trace every adjustment to evidence? Label assumptions and preserve the raw records. This is an accounting exercise, not investment advice or a professional qualification.
Tell the story
Prepare a short case study with the problem, your approach, your output and one improvement you would make next. Label it as a practice project. Explain what you did yourself and identify any templates or outside help you used.