a. FASB ASC Codification reference, for example:
i. Topics — FASB ASC 310 to access the Receivables Topic
ii. Subtopics — FASB ASC 310-10 to access the Overall Subtopic of Topic 310
iii. Sections — FASB ASC 310-10-15 to access the Scope Section of Subtopic 310-10
iv. Paragraph — FASB ASC 310-10-15-2 to access paragraph 2 of Section 310-10-15"
Note: "For clarity, companies may wish to include the title of the cited Codification section. "FASB ASC Topic 310" would appear as "FASB ASC Topic 310, Receivables and "FASB ASC Section 310-10-15" would appear as "FASB ASC paragraph 310-10-15, Receivables - Overall - Scope." To assist readers in the transition to the Codification, companies may present both the Codification citation and former reference. If companies use this presentation, citations to the former reference should follow the Codification reference in parentheses. For example, "FASB ASC paragraph 310-10-15, ReceivablesOverall- Scope(SFAS 131)." "
[Source: "The Codification of GAAP: Be Careful What You Wish For," by John J. Huber. Latham & Watkins Client Alert, No. 848 October 28,2009. Accessed on 4/15/2010 (TAX DAY!)]
Additional References
Useful free tool to use to keep up to date on changes to the codification. This isn't the codification itself. It is the list of topics that have changed or been added since the codification took place in 2009.
Accounting Standards Codification quick reference guide from Price Waterhouse Coopers. Excellent reference and overview for making sure you get the big picture with regards to the standards.
I really like this website's no-nonsense approach to explaining each section of the codification in very basic, plain English. Each description briefly states the reason a specific standard is important/needed. Good tool for getting acquainted with the codification for the first time.
An accounting firm's presentation for clients that exlpains and demystifies the codification. Great overview.
Search for news and professional articles about the codification if you are unsure about something or need expert clarification.