In the conduct of audits of financial statements, it would be a serious breach of responsibility if the auditor did not thoroughly understand accounting. However, many competent accountants do not have an understanding of the auditing process. What causes this difference?

This apparent paradox arises from the distinction between the function of auditing and the function of accounting. Select the choice that best describes the accounting function.

A. The accounting function is the accumulation and evaluation of evidence about information to determine and report on the degree of correspondence between the information and established criteria.

B. The accounting function is the recording, classifying and summarizing of economic events to provide relevant information to decision makers.

C. The accounting function is an engagement in which the accountant reports on the effectiveness of internal control over financial reporting.

D. The accounting function is the review of any part of an organization's operating procedures and methods for the purpose of evaluating efficiency and effectiveness.