Selling a stock for profit

[David Carlson]

On Monday, 7/15/2013 12:12 AM, Michael Gordon wrote:
> I just can't get this to work. I've tried many times to follow the example
> in the guide but just can't get it. Might be something simple.
>
> I've noted the warning about not using Enter:
> "Note
> In order to get GnuCash to commit this zero-share, zero-price split to the
> transaction, you *must*
> Tab out of the split. If you use the Enter key, GnuCash will convert the
> split into shares of the
> commodity."
> But even this I find ambiguous. I understand that I should only use TAB to
> progress through the split, but when all is done and balanced doesn't one
> use Enter to finalise the transaction?
>
> Also it's confusing to see more that one line relating to the sale as shown
> in the screen shot in the guide:
> [image: Inline images 1]
>
> I realise that this is showing a completed entry as there are no little
> grey boxes. What I think I need is how the screen looks and changes as the
> data is entered.
>
> Is there a simpler, step by baby step guide - an Idiot's Guide -  to this
> somewhere?
>
> A video tutorial would be just the job...
>
> Mike.
>
>
>
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I see that part of the problem is that it is not obvious that the screen
shot follows the table that is immediately above it.  That is due to the
limited column widths in that particular picture.  It would be good to
replace it with a better example. 
<https://bugzilla.gnome.org/show_bug.cgi?id=688968> was supposed to
correct this, but it must have fallen through the cracks.

Your comment that it is necessary to use the enter key (or mouse key)
later to commit the entire transaction edit and exit the transaction is
correct.  The key is to tab out of the capital gain line first, being
sure that shares and price stay at zero.  It does get easier after
having succeeded a few times yourself.  Your suggestion to have a video
tutorial is a good one.  I am not sure about calling it an idiot's
guide, however ;)

David C