Misconception · MIS:cost-of-goods-sold-equals-purchases

Mistaken idea “Cost of goods sold, purchases, and supplier payments are equal”

Mistaken reasoning: This mistake merges Inventory cost transferred out, goods acquired, credit purchases, and cash paid to suppliers.

Updated Aug 21, 2026 Review due Nov 7, 2026

Why this is mistaken

Inventory reconciles purchases and cost transferred out. Accounts Payable reconciles credit purchases and supplier payments. Each number belongs to a different event or timing layer. Use the rollforwards before selecting a ratio numerator.

Where to watch

When this mistake may appear

  • An exercise supplies COGS, purchases, and payable balances.
  • Credit purchases are absent from public statements.
Check your work

Your work may contain this mistake if:

  • Uses COGS as credit purchases without disclosure.
  • Calls an Inventory increase a supplier cash payment.