Financial statement analysis — scope and definitions (Select the most complete statement about the tools and statements involved.)

Introduction / Context:
Financial statement analysis integrates information from several core statements to evaluate performance and position. Understanding what each statement conveys is foundational before ratio or cash-flow analysis.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Statements considered: balance sheet and income statement (cash flow statement is also important but not listed here).
• Goal is a comprehensive understanding of profitability and solvency.

Concept / Approach:
The balance sheet is a snapshot of resources and claims at a specific date. The income statement measures performance between two dates by matching revenues and expenses. Robust analysis triangulates between these to assess liquidity, leverage, efficiency, and profitability.

Step-by-Step Solution:
1) Confirm (a): Analysts rarely rely on a single statement; cross-checking is essential.2) Confirm (b): Definition of a balance sheet is a point-in-time summary.3) Confirm (c): Income statement is period-based (flow statement).4) Therefore the most complete choice is (d) All the above.

Verification / Alternative check:
Common ratio sets (liquidity, leverage, efficiency, profitability) require both statements for numerators/denominators.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Each of (a)–(c) is correct but partial; only (d) captures the complete picture requested.

Common Pitfalls:
Interpreting income without considering changes in working capital; ignoring off-balance-sheet obligations.

Final Answer:
All the above