Self-taught bookkeepers use a variety of courses, seminars, books, and other online resources to learn about bookkeeping and accounting. You can also learn how to use accounting software, like QuickBooks, which can teach you about the basics of bookkeeping as well as the technology used by many businesses.

Bookkeepers and accountants sometimes do the same work, but have a different skill set. In general, a bookkeeper's role is to record transactions and keep you financially organized, while accountants provide consultation, analysis, and are more qualified to advise on tax matters.

However, virtual bookkeeping services work remotely with their own equipment and cloud-based accounting software, and it removes all of the added costs of having a person in the office. In addition, businesses don't need to pay a full-time salary if that level of work isn't needed.