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What is the primary function of calculating ratios in financial analysis?

  1. To determine hiring practices

  2. To assess financial health

  3. To analyze employee performance

  4. To evaluate construction methods

The correct answer is: To assess financial health

Calculating ratios in financial analysis serves as a fundamental tool to assess the financial health of a business. Ratios allow stakeholders to evaluate various aspects of an organization's performance, such as profitability, liquidity, and solvency, by comparing different financial metrics against one another. For instance, liquidity ratios like the current ratio indicate whether a company can meet its short-term obligations, while profitability ratios such as the return on assets measure how efficiently a company is generating profit from its assets. By analyzing these ratios, financial analysts can identify trends, benchmark against industry standards, and make informed decisions regarding the viability and sustainability of the business. Using ratios provides a clear snapshot of the financial condition and operational efficiency, making it a crucial aspect of financial evaluation and strategic planning.