Select the best description (from choices

a, b, c or

d) for the attributes of evidence the auditor uses for the audit opinion (1–4):

Attribute: Description

(a,

b, c or d):

1. Sufficient.

2. Reliable.

3. Relevant.

4. Practical.

Descriptions:

a. One would weigh up the evidence required, the cost and time taken to obtain it and sensitivity. Some matters cannot be discovered through audit since it would take too much research.

b. The information should be accurate, without bias and if possible produced by a third party or obtained directly by the auditor. The term stimulates images of the evidence being ‘dependable, honest, sound, and true’.

c. This ensures that evidence is directed to the control objectives. It brings into play the legal concept of admissibility that requires material to relate specifically to the issues at hand.

d. This is in line with materiality, level of risk and the level of auditors’ knowledge of the operation. It means enough, which depends on circumstances.