LECTURE THREE: STAGES OF AUDITING

Introduction
This lecture is aimed at providing the learner with basic knowledge of auditing one

4.1 Specific objectives:

At the end of the lecture you should be able:

Discuss the stages of auditing

Lecture Outline
4.2.1 Introduction to stages of an audit
4.2.2 Stages of an audit

Lecture
In carrying out an audit the following are the main stages. However, note that the steps followed
will vary from client to client and from auditor to auditor.
STAGES OF AN AUDIT

Determining the scope of the audit work. For statutory audits the scope is clearly laid out in the
provisions of the Companies Act and is formally contained in the letter of engagement.
Ascertain nature of the client’s business. The auditor seeks to obtain some background
information of the nature of the client’s business.
Planning the audit; the auditor prepares a planning memorandum that shows the general strategy
in to be followed in conducting the audit.
Ascertaining and evaluating clients accounting systems and internal controls, use of flow charts
and evaluating using key questions.
Carrying out tests of controls: This enables the auditor to determine the level of reliance to be
placed on the internal control system and therefore reduce the level of substantive testing.
Planning the level of substantive testing and formulating the substantive tests to be carried out.
Carrying out substantive testing on the selecting account balances.
Carrying out the final analytical review and concluding whether the financial statements show a
true and fair view.
Drafting the audit opinion and any other reports to be issued under the terms of engagement e.g.
the management letter.

4.4 Activities

Activity 1:
Discuss the various stages of an audit

Activity 2:
Discuss how an auditor can ascertain the nature of a business before commencing
auditing process
4.5 Self – Test Questions

Question One:

State and explain the substantive tests to be carried out by an auditor

Question Two

Explain how an auditor can ascertain the clients accounting systems

4.6 Summary

In this lecture you have learnt that:

i. There are at least nine stages of auditing

4.7 Suggestion for further reading

Students are recommended to do further reading on the following;
i. The issues to be included in the planning memorandum by an
auditor
ii. Analytical review procedures
iii. Auditors opinion