The consistency concept requires what practice?

• A. Changing the accounting method every year to reflect trends.
• B. Continuing to use the same accounting method in the future if used in the past.
• C. Disclosing all methods used in financial statements.
• D. Accelerating revenue recognition when cash is received.

Answer: (B)

Consistency means you apply the same accounting method to similar items from year to year so readers can compare results over time. If a method has been used in the past, you should continue using it in the future; changes, when justified, must be disclosed because they affect comparability. This is why continuing with the same method is the best fit. Changing methods every year would undermine comparability, and accelerating revenue recognition affects timing rather than the consistency principle. Disclosing accounting policies is important, but the core idea of consistency is the ongoing use of the same method.