Comprehensive and Detailed Step-by-Step Explanation:
* Planning Phase: According to the International Standards for the Professional Practice of Internal Auditing (ISPPIA), Standard 2200 (Engagement Planning), the internal auditor must establish the engagement's objectives, scope, and criteria during the planning phase. This ensures that the audit is focused and aligned with organizational objectives and stakeholder expectations.
* Performance Phase: During this phase, auditors execute the planned activities, but the scope and objectives are typically fixed unless there are significant changes in circumstances.
* Final Engagement Report: The final report documents the outcomes of the audit, not the scope or objectives, which are pre-determined.
References:
* IIA Standard 2200: Engagement Planning.
* IIA Standard 2210: Engagement Objectives.
* IIA Implementation Guides on Engagement Planning emphasize determining the scope and objectives early to provide direction and clarity.
Thus, the correct answer is A. During the planning of the engagement.