This module provides participants with a practical foundation in using analytical procedures throughout an audit, including preliminary, substantive, and final analytical procedures. Participants will explore the factors that influence the design of effective substantive analytical procedures in governmental audits, including the reliability and appropriateness of data sources, documentation requirements, and the level of detail needed to develop meaningful expectations.

The module also examines how a storytelling approach can strengthen the documentation and performance of substantive analytical procedures by helping auditors clearly connect the information gathered, expectations developed, procedures performed, and conclusions reached. Participants will consider how thoughtful analysis and professional judgment can support more effective audit procedures and conclusions.

Through classroom discussion and a case study focused on using substantive analytical procedures to test expense accounts, participants will apply the concepts covered in the module to a practical governmental audit scenario. They will practice identifying appropriate areas for analytical procedures, designing procedures based on relevant data and expectations, and evaluating the results to determine whether additional audit work may be necessary.

The course emphasizes the importance of clearly documenting substantive analytical procedures, including the rationale for the approach, the results of the analysis, and the conclusions reached. Participants will also consider how strong documentation supports compliance with professional standards and facilitates effective supervision and review of governmental audit work.