According to ISA 200, what is one overall objective of an auditor?

The overall objective of an auditor, as outlined in ISA 200, is to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements as a whole are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error. This objective is fundamental to the audit process because it emphasizes the auditor's role in enhancing the credibility and reliability of the financial statements. By obtaining reasonable assurance, the auditor provides stakeholders with confidence that the financial reports can be trusted for decision-making purposes.

This assurance is achieved through the application of rigorous audit procedures, including risk assessment and testing of internal controls, which helps to ensure that the financial statements present a true and fair view of the entity's financial position and performance. The focus on reasonable assurance distinguishes the auditor's work from that of other professionals, as it is specifically tied to evaluating the accuracy and honesty of financial reports rather than evaluating operational effectiveness or strategic success.

The other options do not align with the primary aim of the audit function. For instance, maximizing a company's revenue, ensuring compliance with taxation laws, or providing advice on financial strategy are not objectives of an audit; instead, these fall within the realm of management responsibilities or other advisory functions. The auditor’s role is specifically concerned with the integrity of the financial statements rather than the operational or strategic