What is the process of inputting financial data into sheets called?

The process of inputting financial data into sheets is termed data entry. This term specifically refers to the act of entering data into a software application or system. In the context of financial planning and analysis, data entry involves inputting historical financial figures, projections, and other relevant information that will be used to create budgets, forecasts, or reports.

While data analysis involves examining data to extract useful insights, and forecasting focuses on predicting future financial performance based on various methods, these concepts are distinct from the basic act of entering data. Budgeting, on the other hand, is a broader concept that involves creating financial plans that allocate resources over a specific period, which relies on accurate data entry but is not synonymous with it. Therefore, understanding that data entry is the foundational step that enables more complex processes like budgeting and forecasting is crucial in financial management.