What is the purpose of the preliminary analytical procedures? What types of comparisons are useful when performing preliminary analytical procedures?

Analytical procedures are performed during the planning phase of the engsagement to assist the auditor in determining the nature, extent, and timing of work to be performed. preliminary analytical procedures also help the auditor identify accounts and classes of transactions where misstatements are likely. comparisons that are useful when performing preliminary analytical procedures include: 1) compare client and industry data2) compare client data with similar prior period date3) compare client data with client-determined expected results4) compare client data with auditor-determined expected results5) compare client data with expected results, using nonfinancial data.(lo #8-5, 8-6)