Comprehensive and Detailed Step-by-Step Explanation:
* Reference to Analytical Techniques:
* Trend Analysis involves examining data over a period to identify patterns, shifts, or anomalies.
* This technique is appropriate for longitudinal data like sales over four years.
* Reasoning:
* Option B (Trend analysis) is correct as it helps the auditor analyze sales performance over time and identify patterns or deviations.
* Option A (Ratio analysis) compares related metrics, such as profitability or liquidity, but does not focus on changes over time.
* Option C (External benchmarking) involves comparing performance to external standards or competitors, not internal historical data.
* Application in Audit:
* Trend analysis allows the auditor to assess growth, seasonal patterns, or irregularities in sales data, providing actionable insights.