> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://dukarun.gitbook.io/docs/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://dukarun.gitbook.io/docs/money-and-reporting/reading-sales-costs-and-margin.md).

# Reading sales, costs, and margin

## Why this matters

Revenue shows the value sold. Cost of goods sold shows the recorded cost of the stock sold. Margin shows what remains before general business expenses.

## Before you start

Your role must allow you to view reports. Decide which location and date range you want to review. Use the same range whenever you compare figures.

## Video

The task-specific walkthrough is being prepared. For now, watch this Dukarun overview.

{% embed url="<https://youtu.be/dfykDyK6Fs8>" %}

## Steps

1. Open **Reports**.
2. Set **From** and **To**, then choose **Apply**. On a small screen, choose **Period**, then **View report**.
3. Open the **Sales** report.
4. Read **Revenue**, **COGS**, and **Margin** for each day.
5. Check the totals for the whole period.
6. Use the **Products**, **Customers**, and **Inventory** reports when you need to explain which items, customers, or stock values contributed to the result.

## Read the figures together

**Margin = Revenue - COGS**

For example, if revenue is KES 10,000 and COGS is KES 6,500, the reported margin is KES 3,500. Rent, salaries, electricity, and other general expenses are not included in this figure.

## What changes in Dukarun

Viewing a report does not change business records. Reports summarise completed transactions and refresh hourly.

## Related terms

[Revenue](/docs/glossary.md#revenue), [COGS](/docs/glossary.md#cogs), [gross margin](/docs/glossary.md#gross-margin), and [unit cost](/docs/glossary.md#unit-cost).

## Continue the workflow

[Understand the full financial result](/docs/money-and-reporting/understanding-the-financial-result.md).

## If something does not look right

* Check the date range and location first.
* A completed credit sale counts as revenue even when the customer has not paid yet.
* Missing or incorrect unit costs can make COGS and margin misleading. Correct the source product or purchase record rather than editing the report.