T account definition including break down of areas in the definition. Analyzing the definition of key term often provides more insight about concepts. The term T account can be defined as: Tool used to show the effect of transactions and events on individual accounts. It is important to note that T accounts are a tool and are not exactly the same as a general ledger account but are a shorthand way to display information that is often shown in a general ledger account. T-accounts can be drawn by hand to show activity and add up debits and credits in an efficient why.