To perform audits and study auditors and the audit function demands a detailed understanding of audit components and their characteristics. The authors of this unique book -- a blend of research findings, data analysis, and proprietary data base--provide just that: a comprehensive inventory of audit tasks and essential decision aids, all developed by highly experienced auditors. The result is an important study with immediately realizable benefits for professionals and academics in management and accounting, plus specialists in psychology and related fields in the behavioral sciences.