Mathematical Accuracy

Perform arithmetic validation of tables through footing and crossfooting checks.

Overview

The Mathematical Accuracy review mode performs arithmetic validation of tables throughout the financial statements. It verifies that all footing (vertical addition) and crossfooting (horizontal addition) calculations are mathematically correct, ensuring no arithmetic errors exist in your issued financial statements.

Mathematical Accuracy checks catch calculation errors that might otherwise go unnoticed, particularly in complex tables with multiple dimensions or where manual adjustments were made.

What It Checks

Mathematical Accuracy validation includes two types of calculations:

Footing

Vertical summations within columns to verify that column totals are mathematically correct.

Crossfooting

Horizontal summations across periods or categories to ensure row totals match the sum of their components.

Footing Example

Verifying that a column of numbers adds up correctly:

Assets
  Cash                    $ 1,250,000
  Accounts Receivable       2,100,000
  Inventory                 1,875,000
  Property & Equipment      4,500,000
                          ___________
  Total Assets           $ 9,725,000  ✓ Footing check

Crossfooting Example

Verifying that row totals equal the sum across periods:

                    2024        2023        Total
Revenue          $5,200,000  $4,800,000  $10,000,000  ✓ Crossfoot check

Tables with footing checks (column totals)
Tables with crossfooting checks (row totals)
Calculated vs. presented totals for comparison
Discrepancies highlighted when calculations don't match

Investigate discrepancies

When calculations don't match the presented totals, investigate:

Mathematical error: Is there a genuine arithmetic mistake in the table?
Rounding difference: Are components rounded differently than the total?
Hidden line items: Are there items included in the total that aren't visible in the table?
Incorrect formula: Was the wrong calculation logic applied?
Presentation format: Is the table showing condensed or net amounts?

Prior Year Consistency

Verify current-year amounts agree with prior-year figures.

Internal Consistency

Validate values are consistent within the same financial statements.

Complete all three review modes (Prior Year Consistency, Internal Consistency, and Mathematical Accuracy) for comprehensive financial statement validation.

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