Do you just use a spreadsheet or pen-and-paper, or invest in an accounting app?

Both approaches are valid. The right choice depends on volume, complexity, and tolerance for manual work.

When spreadsheets or paper work well

• Low transaction volume
• Few events per year
• Simple income and expenses

Spreadsheets are flexible and free—but rely heavily on discipline.

When software becomes helpful

As volume increases, bookkeeping software can:

• Reduce repetitive work
• Improve accuracy
• Generate reports automatically

Many vendors start simple and upgrade later.

The real decision point

If bookkeeping starts feeling fragile, time-consuming, or stressful, it’s usually time to move beyond spreadsheets.