What aspect is crucial to track when maintaining incomplete records?

When maintaining incomplete records, it is crucial to track both cash and bank transactions because this approach provides a more comprehensive picture of the financial activities of a business.

Tracking cash transactions is important because it reflects the immediate inflow and outflow of funds that directly affect the business's liquidity. On the other hand, monitoring bank transactions is essential to ensure that all transactions recorded align with the bank statements, which helps in catching discrepancies and reconciling accounts. By doing so, a business can identify any missing transactions, errors, or frauds.

In the context of incomplete records, focusing solely on cash or income does not give the full financial picture necessary for effective decision-making. It can lead to underestimating expenditures or misrepresenting income, which may result in financial mismanagement. By encompassing both cash and bank transactions, a more accurate and holistic view of the financial situation can be maintained, leading to better financial control and planning for the business.