Financial model conventions

Every model built with these skills follows the same conventions, so any model can be read, checked, and extended the same way. Domain skills assume these and only describe what differs.

Layout

• Sheet order follows the flow of calculation: Cover → Inputs → Timing → calculation sheets → Outputs → Checks.
• Inputs live only on input sheets. Calculation sheets hold no hardcoded numbers except structural constants (1, 12, 0).
• Time runs left to right in columns; one row = one line item; every time-series row uses the same formula across all columns.
• Columns reserved at the left of every calc sheet: label, units, total/constant, a blank spacer, then the first period. The spacer lets opening = prior closing use the same formula in the first period as in every other.
• Totals cover the model window only (e.g. SUMPRODUCT with an in-model flag) when the timeline runs past it for forward-looking values.

Inputs