How do you manually balance your checkbook?

Answer 1

The bank should send you a statement, or you can usually go online and do it.

Its just simply a matter of reconcilliation after that. You match what your checkbook says, to what the bank says. If there are any descrepencies, you investigate. Very simply process.

Answer 2

start with a balance. if you make a deposit, add the amount to the balance. then, every time you write a check, subtract that amount from the balance. when your statement arrives, make sure your calculations agree with the bank's. also, when you get the statement, subtract any fees the bank deducted.

Answer 3

pencil and paper.