In South Dakota, as elsewhere, the main function of bookkeeping is to systematically record, categorize, and maintain financial transactions, ensuring accurate and up-to-date financial records for businesses and individuals. Bookkeeping provides a clear picture of a business’s financial health by tracking income, expenses, assets, and liabilities. This foundational financial information is essential for informed decision-making, tax compliance, and investment planning. Accurate bookkeeping also aids in budgeting, forecasting, and analyzing financial trends, giving businesses in South Dakota the ability to make proactive choices and maintain fiscal responsibility. It serves as the groundwork for subsequent accounting processes and financial statement preparation.