What it is
Once the sample size is set, the work left is selecting the items, proving the population was complete and recording how the items were chosen. This workbook takes a pasted population of up to 500 items, picks out the individually significant items, selects the rest by systematic selection from a random start, by random numbers you generate, or by both, and lists the selection in order for the testing workpaper.
The Results tab shows coverage by count and by value and runs tie-outs: the population total against the ledger, the list against the value selected, the systematic hits against the number requested, and the random numbers against the population. A documentation block records the method, the tool used for random numbers and who selected.
When to use it
- For tests of details on invoices, shipments, payments, journal entries or confirmations once the sample size is known.
- For tests of controls where items must be drawn from a listing of occurrences.
- When the reviewer needs evidence of how a sample was drawn and that the population was complete.
What’s inside
- Parameters: population definition, key item threshold, items to select, random start, method and a list for random numbers
- Population tab for 500 items with key item flag, pool position and selection flags
- Selection tab listing up to 120 selected items in order with amount and basis
- Results: coverage, five tie-outs and a documentation block
Standard cited
This template follows AU-C 530. It is written in our own words, except for phrases the standard requires the document to contain, with [bracketed placeholders] for client details, amounts in USD and dates as MM/DD/YYYY. Check it against the current standard and your firm’s methodology before use. See AU-C 530 explained.
Questions
Does this workbook calculate the sample size?
No. Sample size comes from your sampling plan, for example attribute sampling for controls, monetary unit sampling for balances or a judgmental size. This workbook selects the items. See the attribute sampling and monetary unit sampling workpapers for sizing.
How does systematic selection work here?
Items at or above the key item threshold are set aside. The rest form a pool numbered in the order pasted. The interval is the pool size divided by the number to select, rounded down. Starting from the random start you enter, every interval-th item is selected until the requested number is reached.
How should I generate random numbers?
Use a random number generator you can document, paste the item numbers as values into the list, and record the tool and the date in the documentation block. A formula that recalculates each time the file opens would change the selection, so paste values.
Why test the order of the population?
A systematic interval can line up with a pattern in the list, such as every tenth invoice being a month-end batch. Check the order the data was extracted in before relying on the interval, and record it.
Related templates
- Attribute Sampling Sample Size Worksheet
- Monetary Unit Sampling Workpaper (MUS)
- Confirmation Control Log (AU-C 505)
- Journal Entry Testing Workpaper (AU-C 240)
Last updated 11/05/2026. All free templates.