When you use total assets in the denominator, look at each balance sheet item as a percentage of total assets. For example, if total assets equal $500,000 and receivables are $75,000, receivables ...

Though a balance sheet is intended to be a gateway to understanding a company's financial position, there are lots of places on one for valuable information to hide. Here's where to look.

The article How to Interpret the Vertical Analysis of a Balance Sheet and Income Statement originally appeared on Fool.com. Try any of our Foolish newsletter services free for 30 days .

The article How to Interpret the Vertical Analysis of a Balance Sheet and Income Statement originally appeared on Fool.com. Try any of our Foolish newsletter services free for 30 days .