What is the duality concept in accounting?

Dual Aspect Concept, also known as Duality Principle, is a fundamental convention of accounting that necessitates the recognition of all aspects of an accounting transaction. Dual aspect concept is the underlying basis for double entry accounting system. Double entry accounting system is based on the duality principle and was devised to account for all aspects of a transaction. Under the system, aspects of transactions are classified under two main types: Debit Credit Debit is the portion of transaction that accounts for the increase in assets and expenses, and the decrease in liabilities, equity and income. Credit is the portion of transaction that accounts for the increase in income, liabilities and equity, and the decrease in assets and expenses. The classification of debit and credit effects is structured in such a way that for each debit there is a corresponding credit and vice versa. Hence, every transaction will have 'dual' effects (i.e. debit effects and credit effects). The application of duality principle therefore ensures that all aspects of a transaction are accounted for in the financial statements