Distinguish cycle counting from a full physical inventory audit.

• A. Cycle counting verifies a subset of items on a rotating basis.
• B. Full physical inventory counts all items at a set period.
• C. Cycle counting is done annually; cycle counts are conducted at year-end.
• D. Full physical inventory uses random sampling.

Answer: (A)

Cycle counting verifies a subset of items on a rotating basis, making it an ongoing method to maintain inventory accuracy without taking everything offline. This approach continually checks parts of the stock and updates records as discrepancies are found, keeping operations smoother and less disruptive. In contrast, a full physical inventory audit counts every item in stock at a single point in time, typically requiring planning and downtime to complete and reconcile all quantities. Because cycle counts focus on rotating subsets, they differ from a full inventory, which is comprehensive and not done on a continual basis. The other statements aren’t accurate: cycle counting isn’t confined to an annual or year-end event, and a full physical inventory isn’t performed as random sampling of items.