Even if you become the best mathematician in the world, unless you have some specific computer skills, you’re still useless in the field of corporate finance. Notice in our sample Cash Flow Statement that the Cash Flow from Operating and Investing Activities is positive. Investors, creditors, and other interested parties rely on such information to find out whether a business is making or losing money, and they depend on financial accountants to help ensure that these statements are materially correct and understandable. The applications vary slightly from program to program, but all ask for some personal background information. One of the most important basic things you need to learn in Finance is how to accurately interpret the financial statements.

But no matter how far removed you are from the person who actually owns the money you’re working with, when you’re forced to make a decision, your mood and emotions will influence the decision you make to some extent. They are often happy to share their general knowledge with those just starting out, especially if you show a keen interest in learning more. Learn Excel tips, tricks, shortcuts, functions and formulas in this free video tutorial from the Corporate Finance Institute. Advancing your education by getting a Master of Business Administration can open up even more doors for job opportunities.

If articles with titles like Investment Performance Measurement: Evaluating and Presenting Results by Philip Lawton and Todd Jankowski capture your interest, then the CFA Institute has a reading list that you are sure to like. As you continue to expand your financial knowledge, you are likely to identify specific areas that you would like to learn more about.