Audit-Sampling
Audit-Sampling
Audit-Sampling
Audit sampling is the process by which an auditor selects and tests a representative portion of a
population (such as transactions or balances) to draw conclusions about the entire population. Since it’s
often impractical to test every item in a population due to time, cost, or resource constraints, audit
sampling helps auditors make informed judgments about the financial statements based on a subset of
data.
o The auditor needs to identify the purpose of the sampling. For example, it could be to
test the accuracy of account balances or the effectiveness of internal controls. The
objective helps guide the selection and evaluation of the sample.
o The population refers to the entire set of items that the auditor intends to draw the
sample from (e.g., all sales transactions, all invoices, or all inventory items). The
population should be clearly defined so the auditor can ensure that the sample selected
is representative.
o Larger sample sizes typically increase the reliability of the results but also require more
time and resources.
Random Sampling: Items are selected randomly, ensuring each item has an
equal chance of being chosen.
Systematic Sampling: Items are selected using a fixed interval (e.g., every 10th
transaction).
o Once the sample is selected, the auditor performs the audit procedures on the sample
items. These procedures may involve inspecting documents, verifying transactions,
performing recalculations, or testing controls.
o After testing the sample, the auditor assesses the findings and draws conclusions about
the entire population. This step involves:
Using statistical methods (if applicable) to project the findings from the sample
to the entire population.
Considering whether the sample results meet the tolerable error levels and
whether further testing is needed.
o Based on the evaluation of the sample results, the auditor forms an opinion on the
financial statements, internal controls, or specific audit objectives. If the sample results
indicate errors or weaknesses, the auditor may expand the sample or perform additional
procedures.
Sampling Risk: The risk that the sample selected does not represent the population and leads to
incorrect conclusions.
Non-Sampling Risk: The risk that the auditor makes an incorrect conclusion based on
misinterpretation or improper application of audit procedures.
By following these steps and applying appropriate sampling techniques, auditors can efficiently gather
evidence that helps form their audit opinion while managing resource constraints.