What is the primary responsibility of an accountant?

The primary responsibility of an accountant involves accurately preparing financial statements, which includes drawing up the balance sheet. The balance sheet is a crucial financial document that summarizes a company's assets, liabilities, and equity at a specific point in time. This document provides valuable insights into the financial health of a business and is essential for stakeholders such as management, investors, and creditors.

Accountants ensure that these financial statements adhere to relevant accounting standards and principles, allowing for transparency and reliability in financial reporting. This responsibility underscores the importance of accountants in providing a clear and organized view of a company's fiscal situation, which aids in sound decision-making and strategic planning.

The other options, while they might involve financial professionals in broader contexts, do not encapsulate the core, foundational duties assigned specifically to accountants within their role.