The balance sheet is structured around which equation?

• A. Assets = Liabilities + Stockholders’ Equity
• B. Assets + Liabilities = Stockholders’ Equity
• C. Revenues = Expenses + Net Income
• D. Assets = Stockholders’ Equity − Liabilities

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that the balance sheet is a financial statement that shows a company's financial position at a specific point in time by listing its assets, liabilities, and stockholders' equity.
2. Recall the fundamental accounting equation that underpins the balance sheet, which expresses the relationship between these three components.
3. The correct structure of the balance sheet equation is: \(\text{Assets} = \text{Liabilities} + \text{Stockholders' Equity}\).
4. Recognize that this equation means the resources owned by the company (assets) are financed either by borrowing (liabilities) or by the owners' investments (stockholders' equity).
5. Note that the other options provided do not correctly represent the balance sheet equation: for example, revenues and expenses relate to the income statement, not the balance sheet.