In this guide, we will consider how to model a number of balance accumulations using a corkscrew structure and 2D modelling techniques.

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2D CORKSCREWS
How to model

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Financial Modelling
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4. INTRODUCTION
In this guide, we will consider how to model a
number of balance accumulations using a
corkscrew structure and 2D modelling techniques.
For further details on 2D modelling, please
download the guide on 2D calculation blocks.
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DOWNLOAD THIS GUIDE AND THE
ACCOMPANYING EXCEL EXAMPLE

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2D CORKSCREWS
A corkscrew is a standardised calculation block used to model
balance accumulations.
2D corkscrews might be used when balance accumulations are
required for a number of balances.
Imagine we have a portfolio of 8 trade creditors. One approach
is to model each trade creditor with a separate corkscrew.
A 2D corkscrew would capture all 8 items in a single structure.
This is achieved by arranging ingredients of the calculation
block in batches.

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CALCULATION INGREDIENTS
Some of the ingredients
are common to all
balances; others are
unique to a particular
balance.
In this case, the acquisition
/ initial balance date flag is
common to all balances.
Whereas initial balances,
operating cost accrued and
operating cost paid are
required for each of the
eight balances.
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1
2

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CALCULATION INGREDIENTS
Ingredients unique to a particular balance are grouped by type (trade creditors initial balance,
operating cost accrued and operating cost paid). When the grouping is collapsed, only the top
ingredient appears. The others are grouped beneath and appear once the grouping is expanded.
Ingredients that are common to all balances remain as a single ingredient (acquisition / initial
balance date flag).
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3
4
4

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2D CORKSCREWS
A corkscrew contains two calculations: (i) beginning balance and (ii) end balance. The beginning
balance is equal to the previous period’s end balance.
In a 2D corkscrew, each balance has its own calculation of beginning and end balance.
When the grouping is expanded, all the calculations and ingredients may be seen.
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SINGLE CALCULATION VIEW
The trace precedent arrows on a collapsed 2D calculation block are identical to those on an
equivalent 1D calculation block.
The grouping informs a reviewer that they should expect to find consistent links and
calculations in those items that are not visible.

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GROUPING
We have structured our 2D corkscrew such that a blank line (with a reduced row height) is left in
the following instances:
1. After 2D ingredients (constants and series)
2. Between 1D constant and 1D series
3. Between 1D series and 2D calculation
Blank lines are not left between any two 1D constants and any two 1D series lines.
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