What, in your opinion, makes a good financial model?

It is critical to have solid financial modeling principles. Model assumptions (inputs) should be in one place and clearly colored whenever possible (bank models typically use blue font for model inputs). In addition, good Excel models make it simple for users to understand how inputs are translated into outputs. Good models also include error checks to ensure that the model is functioning properly (e.g., the balance sheet balances, the cash flow calculations are correct, etc.). They provide enough detail without being overly detailed, and they have a dashboard that clearly displays the key outputs with charts and graphs.