What entry is made to record cash collected during the year 2021 by Hardhat Construction?

In recording cash collected by Hardhat Construction during the year 2021, the appropriate entry involves increasing the Cash account, reflecting the receipt of cash. Cash is an asset account, and when cash is collected, it increases the total amount of cash on hand. Therefore, the correct entry is to debit the Cash account, as debiting an asset account like Cash increases its balance. This aligns with the fundamental accounting principle that transactions affecting asset accounts are recorded accordingly.

Additionally, when cash is collected from customers, a corresponding effect on Accounts Receivable may be involved, typically a credit to reduce the Accounts Receivable balance if the cash collected pertains to amounts previously billed. However, the question specifically asks for the entry related to cash collection itself, which focuses solely on the Cash account increase.