ACA - Assurance - Question Bank Student
ACA - Assurance - Question Bank Student
ACA - Assurance - Question Bank Student
ASSURANCE
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© ICAEW 2020
ii ICAEW 2021
Contents
Page
6 Revenue system 28 87
7 Purchases system 31 88
8 Employee costs 35 90
9 Internal audit 39 92
10 Documentation 42 93
12 Written representations 51 96
16 Confidentiality 72 103
2 Which two of the following describe the roles of the responsible party in any assurance engagement?
A Setting the criteria of the assurance engagement
B Gathering evidence on the subject matter practition
C Issuing an opinion on the subject matter against the criteria set
D Preparing the subject matter LO 1c
3 Which one of the following describes the assurance provided and conclusion given in a reasonable
assurance engagement?
A Absolute and negative
B High and negative
C High and positive
D Low and positive LO 1a
4 Which three of the following statements form part of the generally accepted definition of 'fair', in the
context of 'a true and fair view'?
A The information is free from discrimination and bias.
B The accounts have been correctly extracted from the company's books and records. true
C The information complies with generally accepted accounting practice.
D The accounts reflect the commercial substance of the company's underlying transactions. LO 1a
6 With respect to the benefits of assurance engagements, for each of the following statements select
whether they are true or false.
Assurance is an independent and professional activity that users value.
A True
B False
The principle objective of assurance is to detect and correct fraud.
C True
D False
kphai correct và mục tiêu chính là đưa ra opinion
Assurance assignments may take many forms.
E True
F False LO 1a/b
7 The following are ways in which the assurance provider might be able to 'close' the expectations gap.
For each, select whether it is true or false.
By issuing an engagement letter setting out the work to be carried out and its limitations:
A True
B False
By reducing the audit fee:
C True
D False
By including a caveat in the assurance report:
E True báo cáo sai phạm
F False LO 1d
Văn bản
8 Which two of the following statements best describe the statutory audit?
A It leads to a certification of the correctness of the financial statements.
B It is an independent examination. k cần correct
C It is an opinion on the truth and fairness of the financial statements.
k dc dùng internal
D It may be carried out by both external and internal auditors. LO 1a
9 The following statements describe possible limitations of the provision of assurance. For each
statement select whether it is a limitation or is not a limitation.
Sampling is part of the audit process.
A Is a limitation
B Is not a limitation
bản chất - chủ quan
The provision of assurance in itself can be a subjective process.
C Is a limitation
D Is not a limitation
The auditors may be auditing that particular client for the first time.
E Is a limitation
F Is not a limitation LO 1a
từ lần 2 -> quen client
10 Ilford plc is a large audit client of Smith LLP. Ilford plc has approached Smith LLP to request that they
carry out a review of the inventory system in operation at the Brent branch and the extent to which it
operates in line with company policy.
With reference to the above review engagement, select which part of the review description
constitutes the subject matter, which part is the suitable criteria, and which party is the responsible
party.
The subject matter:
A The Brent branch's inventory system
B Ilford plc's inventory system policies
The suitable criteria:
C The Brent branch's inventory system
D Ilford plc's inventory system policies
The responsible party:
E Ilford plc
F Smith LLP LO 1a
2 Marnie LLP, an audit firm, has been asked by Opportunity Ltd to accept appointment as auditor.
Opportunity Ltd's previous auditor was Kim LLP.
Which one of the following should be Marnie LLP's course of action if Opportunity Ltd refuses to give
them permission to contact Kim LLP?
A Contact Kim LLP in writing in any case and then accept the appointment
B Telephone Kim LLP in order to obtain the information sought and then accept the appointment
C Contact Kim LLP's other clients to try and gain access to Kim LLP, and then accept the
appointment
D Make no communication with Kim LLP or their other clients and should normally decline the
appointment LO 1e
3 Under which three of the following circumstances must a firm decline, or should normally decline, an
appointment as auditor to a company?
A The prospective client refuses to grant the firm permission to contact the previous auditor.
B The prospective client refuses to grant permission to the previous auditor to communicate with
the firm.
C The prospective client still owes audit fees to the previous auditor.
D The client is one for which your firm is ethically barred from acting. LO 1e
5 For each of the following statements about engagement letters select whether they are true or false.
The engagement letter provides an opportunity for management to set out in writing their opinion on
subjective areas in the financial statements.
A True
B False
The engagement letter clarifies the role and responsibilities of auditors and directors.
C True
D False
The engagement letter contains documentation on the preliminary client risk assessment.
E True
F False
The engagement letter contains the auditor's opinion on the financial statements.
G True
H False LO 1e
6 Which one of the following is not a right that an auditor has under the Companies Act 2006?
A The right of access to the company's accounting records
B The right to receive all necessary information and explanations
C The right to see all minutes of management and shareholders' meetings
D The right to disclose confidential information in every circumstance without the permission of
the client tiết lộ LO 1c
2 According to ISA (UK) 315, Identifying and Assessing Risks of Material Misstatement Through
Understanding the Entity and its Environment, which three of the following are reasons why the
auditor should understand the entity and its environment?
A To identify and assess the risks of material misstatements
B To be in a position to design and perform audit procedures
C To be better able to assess the risks of fraud
D To obtain information for other future assignments with the same client LO 1f
4 As part of his analytical procedures on the financial statements of Cookies Ltd, the auditor noted that
the gross profit margin had decreased from 38% last year to 35% this year. The accountant of Cookies
Ltd explains that this is due to a combination of the factors listed below.
For each of the following factors indicate whether or not it is a plausible explanation.
The price of sugar, one of the company's principal raw materials, has increased during the year.
A Plausible
B Not plausible
During the year the company has introduced an early payment discount for customers who pay within
14 days.
C Plausible
D Not plausible LO 1f/3g
6 Which one of the following is most likely to be adopted as an audit strategy if inherent and control risk
are assessed as low?
A Rely on controls, limited substantive procedures necessary
B Rely on controls, no substantive procedures necessary
C Rely on controls, extensive substantive procedures necessary
D No reliance on controls, extensive substantive procedures necessary LO 1f/3f
7 Which one of the following is an implication of purchase invoices not being authorised?
A Unauthorised purchases will be made.
B Purchases will be made from unauthorised suppliers.
C Unauthorised payments will be made.
D Purchases will not be made at the best possible price. LO 2f/g
9 Which three of the following procedures could be used to identify audit risks?
A Computation
B Verification
C Inquiry
D Observation
E Analytical procedures LO 3d
10 Audit risk can be split into three components: inherent risk, control risk and detection risk.
For each of the following factors select the type of risk on which it will have an impact.
This is the first year of the audit.
A Inherent risk
B Control risk
C Detection risk
The client entity has an internal audit function.
D Inherent risk
E Control risk
F Detection risk
The client entity is intending to list on the stock exchange within two years.
G Inherent risk
H Control risk
I Detection risk LO 1f
15 As part of her analytical procedures on the financial statements of PC Ltd, a manufacturing company,
Amisha, has identified that the gross margin has increased from 23% to 28%.
Which two of the following could be a valid explanation for this increase?
A The company has considerably reduced discounts for bulk purchases given to customers.
B The price of raw materials has increased and this increase has been passed on to customers
through increased sales prices.
C The recent increase in competition has resulted in sales prices having to be reduced.
D There has been a significant change in the sales mix. LO 1f/3g
18 For each of the following situations, indicate whether there is most likely to have been a fraud or an
error.
The management of Tosco Ltd intentionally included sales in the financial statements before the year
end, even though they were made after the year end.
A Fraud
B Error
It has come to light that the purchases clerk of Foofa Ltd has been paying monies into his own bank
account instead of those of suppliers.
C Fraud
D Error
The new unqualified financial accountant at Talent Ltd has included expenses in the financial
statements at the date when payments were made to the suppliers.
E Fraud
F Error LO 1j
3 For each of the following forms of evidence select from 1 to 3 in order to rank them in terms of their
reliability (where 1 is the most reliable and 3 is the least reliable).
Schedule of aged receivables obtained from the client:
A 1
B 2
C 3
Bank statement obtained from the client:
D 1
E 2
F 3
Bank statement obtained directly from the bank:
G 1
H 2
I 3 LO 3e
5 Which three of the following relate to assertions about classes of transactions for the period under
audit?
A Occurrence
B Completeness
C Existence
D Cut-off LO 3d/f
6 Which one of the following describes the meaning of 'financial statement assertions'?
A The representations made by management that are embodied in the financial statements
B The representations made by the auditor on the financial statements that are embodied in the
auditor's report
C The representations made by the auditor that are embodied in the financial statements
D The representations made by management in the written representation letter
LO 3d/f
7 Which two of the following approaches could the auditor use when gathering audit evidence?
A Tests of control only
B Substantive procedures only
C Both tests of control and substantive procedures
D Analytical procedures only LO 3f
9 With regards to substantive procedures, select whether the following statements are true or false.
The auditor must always carry out substantive procedures on material items.
A True
B False
Substantive procedures are made up of tests of detail only.
C True
D False
Substantive procedures are carried out as part of the overall review of the financial statements.
E True
F False LO 3b
10 Which three of the following are required by the Companies Act 2006 to be reported on by exception
in an auditor's report?
A Adequate accounting records have been kept.
B Returns adequate for the audit have been received from branches not visited.
C The information given in the directors' report is consistent with the financial statements.
D Details of directors' emoluments have been correctly disclosed in the financial statements.
E In respect of the company's profit or loss for the period, the financial statements give a true and
fair view. LO 1h
11 For which one of the following financial statement assertions does attendance at a period-end
inventory count primarily provide assurance?
A Existence
B Accuracy, valuation and allocation
C Rights and obligations
D Classification LO 3d/f
12 Sending external confirmations to receivables is not helpful for ascertaining which one of the
following?
A The collectability of the receivables balance
B The existence of the receivables balance
13 For each of the following statements select whether they are true or false.
Reviewing supplier statement reconciliations selected on the basis of purchases turnover in the year
helps to confirm the completeness of the accounts payable balance.
A True
B False
Recalculating the depreciation charge helps in verifying the rights and obligations assertion for non-
current assets.
C True
D False
Reviewing inventory movements after the reporting period helps verify the valuation of inventory.
E True
F False LO 3d/f
14 The following are types of tests that might be carried out by an assurance provider. For each example,
select the financial statement assertion that is being tested.
A sample of purchases, taken from the purchases account from throughout the year, is checked
against supplier invoices.
A Cut-off
B Existence
C Occurrence
Insurance expenses are compared year on year.
D Rights and obligations
E Existence
F Accuracy LO 3d/f
15 Two types of procedures used in gathering evidence are tests of controls and substantive procedures.
Sometimes, a specific procedure can serve as both a test of control and substantive procedure.
For each of the following examples, select the type of procedure(s) illustrated.
The year-end bank reconciliation is reviewed.
A Test of control
B Substantive procedure
C Both a test of control and a substantive procedure
16 Audit risk can be split into three components: inherent risk, control risk and detection risk.
For each of the following examples, select the type of risk illustrated.
The company does not maintain a non-current asset register to record its assets.
A Inherent
B Control
C Detection
The budget for this year's audit has remained the same as for the previous year, even though several
new subsidiaries need to be audited this year.
D Inherent
E Control
F Detection LO 1f
17 Audit risk can be split into three components: inherent risk, control risk and detection risk.
For each of the following examples, select the type of risk illustrated.
An audit firm selects its samples systematically. Invoice number 12345 should have been tested, but
the audit assistant tested 12346 instead.
A Inherent
B Control
C Detection
Sarf Ltd has experienced a high turnover of staff connected with the receivables account.
D Inherent
E Control
F Detection LO 1f
2 The following statements relate to small companies and their internal control systems.
For each statement select whether it is true or false.
Small companies have no need for internal control systems.
A True
B False
Small companies can use unsophisticated methods of control to compensate for the lack of formal
controls.
C True
D False
Small companies have difficulty with implementing segregation of duties controls.
E True
F False LO 2a/b
3 With regards to the following control procedures, select whether they are primarily preventative or
detective controls.
Bank reconciliations are prepared on a monthly basis.
A Preventative
B Detective
Management accounts are compared on a monthly basis against the budget.
C Preventative
D Detective
Supplier statements are reconciled with trade payables balances.
E Preventative
F Detective LO 2e
5 The following are descriptions of internal controls in operation at Lilly Ltd. For each description select
the type of control activity which it illustrates.
Only authorised staff may access the inventories storeroom.
A Performance review
B Information processing
C Physical control
The despatch record signed by the customer is agreed to the authorised sales order.
D Performance review
E Information processing
F Physical control LO 2e
6 Controls in an IT system are classified as general controls or application controls. For each of the
following controls select whether they are general controls or application controls.
Training of staff in use of computer programs:
A General
B Application
Password protection of the computer system:
C General
D Application
One-for-one checking of processed output to source documents:
E General
F Application LO 2d/e
8 Which one of the following methods of recording internal controls and document flow is generally
regarded as the most effective?
A Flowcharts
B Family trees
C Narrative notes
D Questionnaires LO 2i
11 The following statements refer to possible limitations of an internal control system. For each
statement, select whether it is true or false.
Internal controls are ineffective if staff collude to override them.
A True
B False
Internal controls are designed to deal with all types of transactions, both routine and
non-routine.
C True
D False
Senior management staff may be in a position to ignore internal controls.
E True
F False LO 2f
13 For each of the following statements select whether they are true or false in respect of risk.
Inherent and control risks are components of audit risk.
A True
B False
Auditors should provide suggestions for companies to overcome business risks.
C True
D False
Identifying business risks is part of the company's risk assessment processes.
E True
F False LO 1f/2f
14 Which two of the following are reasons why segregation of duties is important in an internal control
system?
A It improves efficiency.
B It helps to prevent fraud.
C It improves the rate of detection of errors.
D It is a way of assigning roles within a large organisation. LO 2b
2 The following deficiencies have been identified in Smart Ltd's revenue system. For each deficiency
select the most likely consequence.
Sales discounts are not authorised prior to being given.
A Increased risk of client dissatisfaction
B Company may process loss-making sales orders
C Cash receipts are not recorded correctly in the cash account
Invoices are not checked for arithmetic accuracy prior to being issued to customers.
D Increased risk of client dissatisfaction
E Company may process loss-making sales orders
F Cash receipts are not recorded correctly in the cash account LO 2f/g
4 Which two of the following controls would help to ensure that money received is banked?
A Matching cash receipts with invoices
B Monthly bank reconciliations
C Daily banking of money received
D Investigation of shortages and surpluses of cash in the business LO 2f
5 The following describes processes which form part of the revenue system at Blue Ltd, where all sales
are made on credit.
For each process, select whether it represents a strength or a deficiency of the system.
Customers are not requested to sign as evidence of receipt of goods.
A Strength
B Deficiency
Sales orders are accepted by fax and are processed directly into the system without further action.
C Strength
D Deficiency
All sales orders are sequentially numbered within the computer system.
E Strength
F Deficiency LO 2g
7 Hammers Ltd operates a number of control procedures in its revenue system. Assuming all controls
operate effectively, which one of the following procedures will help to ensure that invoices are
correctly and accurately prepared?
A Sales orders are matched with despatch records.
B Invoices are matched with despatch records.
C Invoices are matched with sales orders.
D Payment receipts are matched with invoices. LO 2f
8 Which two of the following deficiencies could result in the misstatement of trade receivables?
A Signed despatch records are not agreed to sales invoices raised.
B Sales discounts are not always authorised.
C Customers normally pay within 40 days instead of the 30-day credit period.
D Sales returns are not recorded separately from revenue. LO 2f/g
10 Which two of the following would assist in testing for the overstatement of revenue?
A Gross profit margin
B Debt/equity ratio
C Trade accounts receivable days
D Inventory days LO 3f
2 The following deficiencies have been identified in the purchases system at Till Ltd. For each deficiency
select the most likely consequence which might arise as a result of that deficiency.
Purchase orders are not authorised prior to being placed.
A Goods may be misappropriated for personal use.
B The company may not purchase goods on the most advantageous terms.
C There are errors in the financial statements.
Invoices are not always recorded.
D Goods may be misappropriated for personal use.
E The company may not purchase goods on the most advantageous terms.
F There are errors in the financial statements. LO 2f/g
3 The following describes processes which form part of the purchases system in operation at Ochre Ltd.
For each process select whether it represents a strength or a deficiency of the system.
Orders may only be placed with suppliers included on an approved list.
A Strength
B Deficiency
Purchase order forms are kept in the stationery cupboard.
C Strength
D Deficiency LO 2g
5 The following are descriptions of internal controls in operation at Flash Ltd. For each description select
the type of control activity which it illustrates.
All goods received are stored in a secure storeroom with limited access.
A Performance review
B Information processing
C Physical control
The payables account is reconciled with suppliers' statements on a monthly basis.
D Performance review
E Information processing
F Physical control LO 2e
6 The following describes processes which form part of the purchases system in operation at Green Ltd.
For each process select whether it represents a strength or a deficiency of the system.
All orders are placed directly with suppliers by the production department.
A Strength
B Deficiency
All supplier invoices are matched against purchase orders and goods received records prior to being
entered into the accounting system.
C Strength
D Deficiency LO 2g
8 Numerical sequence should not necessarily be applied to which one of the following types of
documentation?
A Goods received records
B Purchase orders
C Supplier statements
D Purchase requisitions LO 2b/f
9 Which two of the following documents assist in testing cut-off for purchases?
A Goods received records
B Purchase requisitions
C Supplier invoices
D Purchase orders LO 3f
10 Staple Ltd, which makes all of its purchases on credit, has seen a fall in trade payables days from 45 on
31 December 20X5 to 30 days on 31 December 20X6.
Which two of the following are plausible reasons for this fall?
A Invoices relating to goods received after the year end were posted to the nominal ledger before
the year end.
B Invoices relating to goods received before the year end were posted to the nominal ledger after
the year end.
C Suppliers have tightened credit terms given to Staple Ltd.
D Suppliers have extended credit terms given to Staple Ltd. LO 1f/3g
12 The organisational structure at Washy Ltd (a manufacturer and retailer of electrical goods) is as
follows. The sales department is headed by Olivia Jones and her assistant is Mary Smith. Olivia Jones
reports to the managing director, John Waters. There are several other departments (production,
accounting, purchasing, HR and internal audit).
Which one of the following statements reflects the most effective segregation/allocation of duties
with regards to sales ordering?
A All sales orders should be recorded by Mary Smith and approved by Olivia Jones.
B Mary Smith should record the sales orders, Olivia Jones should review them and John Waters
should give the final approval.
C Both Mary Smith and Olivia Jones can approve the sales orders.
D It is not necessary for Olivia Jones to become involved in the recording and approval of sales
orders. LO 2b/f
13 The following deficiencies have been identified at Ring Ltd. For each deficiency select the most likely
consequence.
Suppliers are not approved prior to being added to the official suppliers listing.
A Goods ordered are of an inferior quality
B Goods received do not satisfy internal purchase requirements
Goods received are not checked against the order made.
C Goods ordered are of an inferior quality
D Goods received do not satisfy internal purchase requirements LO 2f/g
2 The auditors of Pink Ltd have performed analytical procedures on the salaries figures in the financial
statements and the salary per head appears to have increased by 10% from the previous year.
Assuming there are no errors in the salaries figure, which one of the following explains this
movement?
A An increase in staff numbers along all staff levels
B An increase in general inflation
C An increase in the number of low-skilled staff
D An increase in the number of highly-skilled staff LO 3g
3 At Blue Ltd, the payroll department is responsible for both processing salaries and for maintaining all
staff records and contracts.
Which two of the following represent risks in this system arising from the above responsibilities?
A Fictitious employees are easily created.
B Salary deductions are miscalculated.
C Salaries are paid at the wrong time.
D Changes in employee circumstances are not updated on the payroll. LO 2f/g
5 The following describes certain processes of the payroll system in operation at Orange Ltd.
For each process select whether it represents a strength or a deficiency of the system.
There is no separate personnel department.
A Strength
B Deficiency
Only selected payroll staff have access to standing information on staff.
C Strength
D Deficiency
All changes in salary rates are approved by the head of human resources.
E Strength
F Deficiency LO 2g
8 Picture Ltd maintains a computerised payroll system. All employees are paid by BACS directly into their
bank account.
Which two of the following controls will be most effective in ensuring that accurate payments are
made to employees?
A Authorisation of overtime worked
B A sample of calculations performed by the payroll package are manually re-performed each
month
C The BACS list is reviewed by the chief accountant together with supporting payroll
documentation
D The print out from the bank is agreed to the BACS list and any discrepancies investigated LO 2f
9 Hill Ltd operates a number of controls over its payroll. For the following three controls, select whether
they are preventative or detective controls.
All staff records are maintained by the human resources manager. Any changes in these records are
promptly communicated to the payroll department.
A Preventative
B Detective
Payroll costs are compared to budget on a monthly basis.
C Preventative
D Detective
All employees who are paid weekly by cash must show evidence of their identification prior to
receiving their wages.
E Preventative
F Detective LO 2e
2 The following statements relate to the differences between internal and external auditors.
For each statement select whether it is true or false.
Internal auditors should not co-operate with external auditors.
A True
B False
Statutory audits are carried out by external auditors only.
C True
D False
The internal audit function forms part of the overall internal control system.
E True
F False LO 2h
3 The scope and objectives of the internal audit function vary widely and depend on the size and
structure of the entity and the requirements of its management.
Which three of the following functions could internal audit perform and still operate effectively?
A Advising on the implementation of accounting and operational standards
B Liaising with external auditors
C Recommending improvements in operations
D Voting on decisions that involve external audit matters LO 2h
5 In order to preserve their independence, the internal audit function should report directly to which
one of the following?
A The chief accountant
B The finance director
C The audit committee
D The non-executive directors LO 2h
6 Smarter Supermarkets operates a chain of fifteen supermarkets across London. At head office, there is
an internal audit function which carries out audits and investigations on the individual supermarkets in
the chain.
Which two of the following could the internal audit function carry out and still operate effectively?
A Tests of the controls at the Westminster supermarket as part of a routine internal audit cycle
B Temporarily filling the role of the Lewisham supermarket manager while she is on sick leave
C Identification of risks at the proposed Waterloo supermarket, which is due to open next year
D Investigation into the physical controls at all the supermarkets LO 2h
9 The scope and objectives of the internal audit function vary widely and depend on the size and
structure of the entity and the requirements of its management.
Which two of the following functions could internal audit perform and still operate effectively?
A Preparation of reconciliations between the payables account and supplier statements
B Approving annual budgets
C Reviewing accounting systems and related controls
D Examining financial and operational information for management LO 2h
2 Which three of the following documents would be found on a permanent, as opposed to a current,
audit file?
A Accounts checklist
B Company memorandum and articles of association
C Details of client company history
D Legal documents such as lease agreements and title deeds LO 3a
3 Which three of the following documents would be found on a current, as opposed to a permanent,
audit file?
A Management accounts
B Summary of unadjusted errors
C Written representation
D Engagement letter LO 3a
4 Which one of the following reflects the number of years for which the ICAEW requires firms to retain
their audit documentation after the end of the accounting period to which the documentation relates?
A 5 years
B 6 years
C 7 years
D 10 years LO 3a
6 Select whether the following statements are true or false in respect of the reasons for preparing audit
documentation.
To enable an experienced auditor to carry out quality control reviews:
A True
B False
To provide evidence of audit work carried out in the event of a legal dispute:
C True
D False
To retain a record of matters of continuing significance to future audits:
E True
F False LO 3a
7 With regards to audit working papers, select whether the following statements are true or false.
Working papers belong to the auditor.
A True
B False
Auditors prepare working papers on a voluntary basis.
C True
D False
There are no circumstances under which audit working papers should be given to a third party without
the permission of the client. trường hợp
E True
F False toà án, pháp luật LO 3a
2 For each of the following statements concerning analytical procedures select whether they are true or
false.
Analytical procedures can be used in tests of controls.
A True
B False
Analytical procedures are only helpful where the integrity of the underlying data is high.
C True
D False
quản lí cấp cao
Analytical procedures must be carried out by senior audit personnel only.
E True
F False LO 3d/e
3 There are a number of factors that the auditor should consider when using analytical procedures.
These include suitability and reliability factors.
Which three of the following factors relate to reliability?
A The source of the information
B The materiality of the items involved
C The relevance of the information available
D The comparability of the information available LO 3e
5 The gross margin at West Ltd has increased from the previous year.
Assuming there are no errors in the financial statements, which one of the following explains this
increase?
A Sales volume has increased.
B Administrative costs have increased.
C The cost of raw materials has increased without an effect on the sales price.
D The company now employs more efficient production techniques. LO 3g
6 Which one of the following describes how an assurance provider would check the completeness
assertion for non-current assets?
A Trace an entry in the non-current asset register to the physical asset
B Trace a physical non-current asset to a figure in the financial statements
C Trace a physical non-current asset to an entry in the non-current asset register
D Trace an entry in the financial statements to the physical asset LO 3d/f
7 Which one of the following sources of evidence would assist in verifying the existence of the trade
receivables balance?
A Trade receivables confirmations
B Sales orders
C Analytical procedures over the trade receivables balance
D Recalculations of the individual receivable balances LO 3d/f
8 In testing for the completeness of liabilities, which three of the following sources of documentation
would be helpful?
A Board minutes
B Correspondence with client solicitors
C The year-end bank statement
D Bank letter LO 3d/f
10 Which one of the following best describes random selection in audit testing?
A Testing 100% of a population
B Testing all items in a population with a particular characteristic
C Testing items in a population that appear unusual or suspicious
D Testing less than 100% of a population where each item in the population has an equal chance of
selection LO 3d
11 For each of the following statements concerning statistical and non-statistical sampling select whether
they are true or false.
Non-statistical sampling involves an element of subjectivity.
A True
B False
Statistical sampling involves the random selection of a sample.
C True
D False
Statistical sampling requires the auditor to input a required confidence level.
E True
F False LO 3d
13 In testing whether all goods received records are matched with purchase orders, select whether each
of the following factors would cause an increase in the sample size, a decrease in the sample size or
would have a negligible effect on the sample size.
An increase in the level of expected misstatement:
A Increase
B Decrease
C Negligible effect
An increase in the auditor's required confidence level:
D Increase
E Decrease
F Negligible effect LO 3g
14 In testing the valuation assertion for non-current assets, select whether each of the following factors
would cause an increase in the sample size, a decrease in the sample size or would have a negligible
effect on the sample size.
An increase in the use of other substantive procedures directed at the same assertion:
A Increase
B Decrease
C Negligible effect
Stratification of the population:
D Increase
E Decrease
F Negligible effect LO 3g
16 With regards to tolerable misstatement and sampling risk, select whether the following statements
are true or false.
Tolerable misstatement is a monetary amount set by the auditor in respect of which the auditor seeks
to obtain an appropriate level of assurance that the monetary amount set by the auditor is not
exceeded by the actual misstatement in the population.
A True
B False
Tolerable misstatement is used by management as a guide to the extent of misstatements they can
make.
C True
D False
Sampling risk is the risk that the actual misstatements found in a sample will exceed the expected
misstatements.
E True
F False LO 3d/g
17 For each of the following descriptions relating to sample selection select whether they describe
random selection, haphazard selection or systematic selection.
Mark is selecting a sample of sales invoices to carry out a directional test. He uses a computerised
generator to identify the items to be selected.
A Random
B Haphazard
C Systematic
John is selecting a sample from a list of accounts payable. He makes his selection by choosing every
15th balance.
D Random
E Haphazard
F Systematic LO 3d/g
20 In which one of the following circumstances is monetary unit sampling most appropriate?
A When testing for understatement of assets
B When testing for overstatement of assets
C When testing for understatement of liabilities
D When testing for understatement of expenses LO 3d
21 In respect of an assurance engagement which one of the following is the least persuasive method of
gathering evidence?
A Re-performance of a depreciation calculation
B Inspection of a supplier's invoice
C Inspection of an internally-generated order for the purchase of a non-current asset
D Communicating with a third party to confirm ownership of a non-current asset LO 3e
23 Auditors obtain evidence using procedures set out in ISA (UK) 500, Audit Evidence.
For each of the following tests select the type of procedure which is being used.
The auditor examines a title deed to confirm that the company has ownership of a plot of land.
A Inspection
B Observation
C Confirmation
The auditor is present while a sales order is being processed to test if the controls are carried out.
D Inspection
E Observation
F Confirmation LO 3f
2 For each of the following statements in respect of written representations select whether they are
true or false.
Written representations act as a substitute for other audit evidence.
A True
B False
Written representation letters contain confirmation that the effects of uncorrected misstatements are
immaterial.
C True
D False
Written representations contain a statement that management has disclosed all relevant subsequent
events to the auditors.
E True
F False LO 3h
3 At which one of the following stages in the audit should a written representation letter be signed?
A Before the audit has commenced
B During the course of the audit
C Just prior to the signing of the auditor's report
D After the auditor's report is signed LO 3h
4 Which one of the following drafts and signs the written representation letter?
A Auditor drafts and signs
B Auditor drafts, senior management sign
C Senior management draft and sign
D Senior management draft, auditor signs LO 3h
7 Which two of the following situations would be referred to in the written representation letter?
A Management has refused the auditor permission to contact a major customer.
B Management has confirmed its belief that ongoing litigation with a former employee will not
result in the company having to pay compensation.
C Management has confirmed its belief that a defaulting customer will pay its debts in due course.
D Management has confirmed its belief that all fraud committed by management or employees
with significant roles in internal control has been disclosed. LO 3h
8 Which two of the following matters are management required to confirm in a written representation?
A That management has fulfilled its responsibility for the preparation of the financial statements
B That management is responsible for protecting the interests of the shareholders
C That management has recorded and reflected all transactions in the financial statements
D That the audit fee will be paid in full within three months of the signing of the auditor's report
LO 3h
2 For each of the following substantive procedures on non-current assets, select which financial
statement assertion will be addressed.
Checking a sample of non-current assets to purchase invoices:
A Completeness
B Accuracy, valuation and allocation
C Existence
Selecting a sample of assets on the non-current asset register and confirming that they are physically
present:
D Completeness
E Accuracy, valuation and allocation
F Existence LO 3d
3 When testing the rights and obligations assertion for a sample of plant and machinery, which one of
the following sources of evidence would be most helpful?
A The client's asset register
B Physical verification of the assets
C Purchase invoices
D Recalculation of the depreciation charge LO 3d
ICAEW 2021 Chapter 13: Substantive procedures – key financial statement figures 53
4 For each of the following risks of misstatement in respect of intangible non-current assets select the
financial statement assertion which is directly affected.
Intangible assets are not tested for impairment on an annual basis:
A Completeness
B Accuracy, valuation and allocation
C Existence
Expenses are inappropriately capitalised as intangible assets:
D Completeness
E Rights and obligations
F Existence LO 3d
5 For each of the following audit tests, select which financial statement assertion would be supported.
Enquiries about possible obsolete or slow-moving inventory:
A Completeness
B Accuracy, valuation and allocation
C Cut-off
Taking the last 10 goods received records of the current period and the first 10 goods received records
of the next period and checking that they have been allocated to the correct period:
D Completeness
E Accuracy, valuation and allocation
F Cut-off LO 3d
6 By attending the inventory count on which three of the following is the auditor gaining assurance?
A The quantity of inventory
B The existence of inventory
C The rights and obligations over the inventory
D The effectiveness of the company's controls over the inventory count LO 3d
8 For each of the following statements in respect of perpetual inventory counts select whether they are
true or false.
Management do not need to ensure that inventory lines are counted at least once a year.
A True
B False
Management should ensure that all material differences that arise from the inventory counts are
investigated and corrected.
C True
D False
The inventory count should be organised so there is minimal movement of inventories at the time of
the count.
E True
F False LO 3g
9 Which three of the following are most likely to indicate that the net realisable value of inventory is
lower than its cost?
A There is physical deterioration of the inventory.
B There has been an increase in selling price.
C Newer models are now available.
D There has been a marketing decision to offer small discounts during a sale period.
E There has been a significant unforeseen increase in production costs which cannot be passed on
to the customer. LO 3g
10 There are a number of ways that the auditor can test whether inventories are stated at the lower of
cost and net realisable value.
Which two of the following procedures will assist the auditor in this?
A Corresponding with suppliers
B Reviewing post year-end sales
C Comparing sales prices to cost
D Sending receivables confirmations LO 3d
ICAEW 2021 Chapter 13: Substantive procedures – key financial statement figures 55
11 Direct confirmation with customers assists in obtaining evidence about which three of the following
assertions?
A Existence
B Rights and obligations
C Accuracy, valuation and allocation
D Cut-off LO 3d
12 The following statements relate to the types of confirmations which may be sought from receivables.
For each statement select whether it is true or false.
Under the negative method, the customer is requested to confirm the accuracy of the balance shown
or state his disagreement.
A True
B False
Under one of the options available for the positive method of direct confirmation, the customer may
be requested to provide the balance owed.
C True
D False
Positive confirmations must be used where there are a large number of balances.
E True
F False LO 3b
13 In which two circumstances might it be permissible to use the negative method of receivables
confirmation?
A The assessed risk of material misstatement is high.
B A small number of large balances is involved.
C A substantial number of errors is not expected.
D The auditor has no reason to believe that customers will disregard the request. LO 3d
14 If the client refuses permission for the auditor to communicate with customers for the purposes of
confirming their trade accounts receivable balances, the auditor should do which one of the following?
A Seek evidence from the invoices sent to customers
B Seek evidence from post year-end receipts from customers
C Perform alternative audit procedures and consider the implications on the auditor's report if
these do not generate relevant and reliable audit evidence
D Rely on analytical procedures LO 3g
16 For each of the following audit tests on trade receivables select which financial statement assertion
would be supported.
Comparing the method of calculating the allowance against trade receivables against other entities in
the same industry:
A Completeness
B Accuracy, valuation and allocation
C Existence
Obtaining and reviewing an analysis of aged receivables at the period end for amounts outstanding for
more than the allowed credit period:
D Completeness
E Accuracy, valuation and allocation
F Existence LO 3d
17 During the course of the audit of Ham Ltd, Mary receives 24 replies out of the 27 direct customer
confirmation letters. Mary has already communicated with the three outstanding respondents on at
least four occasions.
Which one of the following should be Mary's next course of action?
A No action is necessary as 24 out of 27 responses is sufficient.
B Mary should pass on the details of the outstanding responses to an independent company official
for chasing.
C Mary should continue her efforts to contact the customers.
D Mary should deem that they are fictitious customers. LO 3g
ICAEW 2021 Chapter 13: Substantive procedures – key financial statement figures 57
18 For each of the following risks of misstatement in respect of the bank and cash balance select the
financial statement assertion to which they relate.
Not all the client's bank balances are being disclosed.
A Completeness
B Existence
C Accuracy, valuation and allocation
Reconciliation differences between the bank balance and the cash account balance are not
investigated and resolved by management.
D Completeness
E Existence
F Accuracy, valuation and allocation LO 3d
19 Keeping the cash account open to take credit for remittances received after the year end is one way of
window dressing.
Which one of the following demonstrates how the auditor can address this risk?
A By checking the cheque payment slips to ensure that outstanding payments really relate to the
current period end
B By checking the bank paying in slips of outstanding lodgements to ensure they belong to the
current year end
C By confirming with customers the date of their payments to the client
D By confirming with suppliers the date of receipt of the client's payments LO 3d/f
20 Which three of the following items will be included in a bank letter from a specific bank?
A Details of all standing orders with the bank
B The bank balance on each account with the specific bank
C Any guarantees made by the client
D Any titles or other assets held for safe custody by the bank LO 3b
21 Direct confirmations from suppliers are not always used by auditors. Under which two of the following
circumstances are supplier confirmations necessary?
A Where supplier invoices and supplier statements are available and part of the standard
documentation of a purchases cycle
B Where there is a pressure on the auditor to complete his audit on time
C Where the auditor suspects that the client is deliberately trying to understate payables
D Where the client refuses to provide supplier statements to the auditor LO 3d
23 Which one of the following sources of information will not be helpful for auditing
non-current liabilities?
A Loan agreements
B Bank letters
C Share certificates
D Board minutes LO 3d
24 The results of substantive tests on trade payables at Waltham Ltd are set out below. The materiality
threshold set for these tests was £12,000.
For each of the following results, select the action which should be taken by the audit senior.
Of the 15 supplier confirmations sent, only 10 were returned.
A Draw conclusion
B Refer to senior colleague
C Extend sample
In a sample of 30 supplier invoices out of approximately 300, representing 5% of the payables
balances, errors were found on the payables account concerning the recording of liabilities from 8
invoices totalling £200.
D Draw conclusion
E Refer to senior colleague
F Extend sample LO 3i
ICAEW 2021 Chapter 13: Substantive procedures – key financial statement figures 59
25 Which three of the following are the more significant risks in relation to a non-current asset balance in
the financial statements?
A Non-current assets exist and have been included in the financial statements but belong to a third
party.
B Non-current assets have not been depreciated.
C Expenses unrelated to non-current assets have been included in the non-current asset balance.
D Non-current assets have not been disclosed properly in the financial statements.
LO 3d
26 For each of the following circumstances in respect of inventory, select which financial statement
assertion would be affected.
Differences identified at the inventory count, where physical inventory exceeded amounts recorded in
the inventory records, have not been adjusted in the inventory records.
A Completeness
B Existence
C Cut-off
Inventory in transit at the end of the year has not been taken into account.
D Completeness
E Existence
F Cut-off LO 3d
27 The auditor of Ilford Ltd carried out a receivables circularisation at the year end to confirm the
accuracy of total trade receivables in the statement of financial position at that date. Two of the
replies to the circularisation disagreed with the balance.
For each of these two disagreements, select whether the disagreement would be considered a
misstatement or would not be considered a misstatement for the purposes of evaluating the accuracy
of total trade receivables in the statement of financial position at the year end.
Colchester Ltd disagreed with the balance, stating that the amount owed was £11,100 and not
£15,600 as was written on the confirmation letter. On investigation, the auditor discovered that
invoice number SI 8976 for a total of £1,600 had been recorded by Ilford Ltd as £6,100.
A Misstatement
B Not misstatement
Rainham Ltd disagreed with the balance because their records had cancelled invoice number SI 11493.
This was because Rainham Ltd had returned some goods three days prior to the year end. The auditor
has verified that the goods have been returned and that cut-off with inventory is correct.
C Misstatement
D Not misstatement LO 3g
29 Two types of procedures used in gathering evidence are tests of controls and substantive procedures.
For each of the following examples select the type of procedure illustrated.
Carrying out analytical procedures on the income statement:
A Test of control
B Substantive procedure
Reviewing board minutes for evidence of authorisation of major additions to non-current assets:
C Test of control
D Substantive procedure
Reperforming only the year-end bank reconciliation:
E Test of control
F Substantive procedure LO 3b
30 Which three of the following are reasons why an auditor will request a bank letter from all the client's
banks?
A Bank statements held by the client may have been tampered with.
B The bank statements may be less accurate.
C The bank letter contains other information which may be helpful in the audit.
D The bank letter is sent directly to the auditor and is therefore more reliable. LO 3d
ICAEW 2021 Chapter 13: Substantive procedures – key financial statement figures 61
Chapter 14: Codes of professional ethics
1 For each of the following statements in relation to guidance on professional ethics select whether they
are true or false.
It is in the public interest for accountants to follow a professional ethics framework.
A True
B False
Ethical guidance from ICAEW is in the form of rules rather than principles.
C True
D False
Rules-based codes offer a more straightforward ethical framework, as they cover specific situations.
E True dễ áp dụng hơn
F False LO 4a
3 Which one of the following is not one of the stated fundamental principles of the IESBA
Code of Ethics?
A Integrity
B Courtesy
C Objectivity
D Confidentiality LO 4d
5 Marr LLP are the auditors of Dreams plc, a listed company. Dreams plc has approached Marr LLP to
help it design and implement a new IT system.
Which one of the following threats is created if Marr LLP accept this assignment?
A Intimidation threat
B Advocacy threat
C Familiarity threat
D Management threat LO 4k
6 Bubbles Ltd, an audit client of Johnson LLP, is unhappy with the way the audit is being carried out and
has threatened to replace Johnson LLP if the firm does not issue the opinion Bubbles Ltd wants.
Which one of the following threats is created by this situation?
A Intimidation
B Advocacy
C Familiarity
D Management LO 4k
7 Whitely LLP are the auditors of East Ltd. East Ltd has approached Whitely LLP to carry out share
dealings on its behalf.
Which one of the following threats to independence is created by this situation?
A Intimidation
B Advocacy
C Familiarity
D Self-interest LO 4k
9 Blue Ltd is applying to its bank for a business loan, and as part of its application it is required to submit
a business plan and forecast financial statements. Believing that it would add credibility to its
application, it has engaged Yellow LLP to provide an assurance report on the forecast financial
statements.
George Cameron, the chief executive of Blue Ltd, has proposed that a fee only be payable to Yellow
LLP if the loan application is successful.
Which two of the following threats are most likely to be present here, in line with the IESBA Code?
A Familiarity threat
B Self-interest threat
C Intimidation threat
D Advocacy threat LO 4k
2 Jude LLP is about to commence the audit of its client, Merry Ltd. However, Merry Ltd still owes fees to
Jude LLP for last year's audit.
Which one of the following should be Jude LLP's course of action?
A Continue to act with safeguards
B Threaten to issue a qualified auditor's opinion if Merry Ltd do not pay
C Consider whether it is necessary to resign
D Accept shares in Merry Ltd to the value of the audit fee LO 4f
3 A partner in Estelle LLP has just inherited a large number of shares in one of the firm's audit clients.
Which one of the following should be Estelle LLP's course of action?
A The partner should dispose immediately of the shares
B The partner does not need to dispose of the shares but can transfer them to his wife
C The partner can transfer the shares into the name of the audit firm
D The partner may keep the shares but must have no involvement in the audit of that particular
client LO 4f
5 Harry Price has been offered a loan at a commercial rate of interest from a high street bank that
happens to be his audit client.
Which one of the following should be Harry's course of action?
A Accept the offer
B Reject the offer
C Accept the offer after two years have elapsed from the conclusion of the audit
D Accept the offer with the condition that this transaction is disclosed in the auditor's report LO 4f
6 Duncan LLP regularly receives 12% of its gross practice income from the audit of Lilac plc, a listed
company, and 13% of its gross practice income from the audit of Soda Ltd, a private company.
Which one of the following measures should Duncan LLP take with regards to the audits of Lilac plc
and Soda Ltd?
A Implement safeguards in respect of Lilac plc and resign from Soda Ltd
B Implement safeguards in respect of both Lilac plc and Soda Ltd
C Resign from Lilac plc and implement safeguards in respect of Soda Ltd
D Resign from both Lilac plc and Soda Ltd LO 4f
8 For each of the following situations involving an auditor and their clients, select the action the auditor
should take: accept the offer/request with no safeguards, accept with safeguards or reject the
offer/request.
A client has offered the auditor an audit fee based on a percentage of reported profits.
A Accept with no safeguards
B Accept with safeguards
C Reject
An audit client has requested that the audit partner serve on the board of directors.
D Accept with no safeguards
E Accept with safeguards
F Reject LO 4f
9 For each of the following situations involving an auditor and their clients, select the action the auditor
should take: accept the request with no safeguards, accept the request with safeguards or reject the
request.
A listed company audit client requests that the auditor prepare its accounts in an emergency situation.
A Accept with no safeguards
B Accept with safeguards
C Reject
A private company audit client requests that the auditor prepares its accounts on an ongoing basis.
D Accept with no safeguards
E Accept with safeguards
F Reject LO 4f
10 A private company client has requested that its auditor prepares a valuation for a material portfolio of
shares included in the statement of financial position.
Which one of the following combinations of threats may arise if the auditor agrees to take on this
assignment?
11 Julie LLP's client, Beige plc, a listed company, has asked the firm, in its capacity as an accountant and
external auditor, to act as an expert witness in a court case. The outcome of the case could be material
to the amounts in the financial statements, but no significant degree of subjectivity is involved.
Which one of the following should be Julie LLP's course of action?
A Accept the appointment without implementing safeguards
B Accept the appointment with appropriate safeguards
C Seek the permission of the audit committee and then accept or refuse the appointment
D Refuse the appointment LO 4f
12 Which three of the following are examples of when a familiarity threat might arise?
A The auditor is being sued by the client.
B There are family relationships between the auditor and the client.
C There are personal relationships between the auditor and the client.
D The auditor has acted for the client for a number of years. LO 4k
14 Verity is a trainee in the audit department of Jones LLP. For her first client, she has been assigned the
audit of cash and part of the work is to review the year-end bank reconciliation. Verity has never
carried out this review before but she has last year's file and has covered bank reconciliations in her
studies. Although Verity is currently alone at the client, she can call the audit manager at any time.
Which one of the following should be Verity's course of action?
A Perform the work, consulting the audit manager with any queries
B Refer the matter to her training partner
C Contact the ICAEW telephone helpline
D Take legal advice LO 4g
15 Geoff is a trainee in the audit department of Dickens LLP. For his first client, he has been sent
unsupervised to a small investment bank. He has been assigned the planning and performance of the
audit of the bank and has a deadline to report to the partner in two weeks' time. Geoff's only guidance
is the prior year audit files.
Which one of the following should be Geoff's initial course of action?
A Perform the work
B Refer the matter to his training partner
C Contact the ICAEW telephone helpline
D Take legal advice LO 4g
17 Which one of the following threats arises from long association with an audit client?
A Self-review
B Intimidation
C Familiarity
D Advocacy LO 4k
18 The following are examples of situations in which Meryll LLP, an assurance firm with over 200 listed
and non-listed clients in a wide range of industries, might need to implement safeguards in order to
protect its independence.
For each situation select the most appropriate safeguard or state that there are no safeguards which
could reduce the risk to an acceptable level.
One of Meryll LLP's clients has requested that the assurance firm provide additional tax services on an
ongoing basis.
A Separate personnel
B Fee threshold not exceeded
C No safeguards possible
Meryll LLP has been asked to step in and prepare the financial statements of a listed client as the
financial controller has been taken ill.
D Separate personnel
E Fee threshold not exceeded
F No safeguards possible LO 4l
2 In certain circumstances, auditors have a legal duty to disclose confidential client information to third
parties.
Which three of the following describe such circumstances?
A When the client is involved in terrorist activities
B When the auditor is corresponding with tax authorities
C When the client has breached regulations of the Financial Conduct Authority
D When there is a suspicion of money laundering LO 4j
3 During the audit of Turquoise Ltd, the audit senior comes across a number of unusual transactions that
leads him to suspect that the client is involved in money laundering.
Which one of the following should be the audit senior's next course of action?
A Consult his firm's money laundering nominated officer
B Consult the serious crime authorities directly
C Consult the client and inform them of his suspicion
D Contact the local police for immediate arrest of the client LO 4j
4 Meek LLP has recently been approached to carry out the audit of Yellow Ltd. Yellow Ltd is the major
competitor of Meek LLP's existing client, Green Ltd.
Which one of the following should be Meek LLP's initial course of action?
A Resign from Green Ltd
B Resign from both Green Ltd and Yellow Ltd
C Inform both Green Ltd and Yellow Ltd about the situation
D Do nothing LO 4h/j
6 Assurance providers need to take particular care in the steps taken where conflicts of interest arise.
For each of the following cases select whether they constitute a conflict of interest or not.
The assurance provider has been approached to provide audit services to a key competitor of an
existing audit client.
A Conflict of interest
B Not a conflict of interest
The assurance provider has been asked to advise a company wishing to acquire a client company.
C Conflict of interest
D Not a conflict of interest
The external auditor has been approached to carry out a review assignment on the interim financial
statements of an existing audit client.
E Conflict of interest
F Not a conflict of interest LO 4h