How is the summary provided in financial statements primarily useful?

The summary provided in financial statements is primarily useful to assess financial health because it presents a comprehensive overview of a company's financial performance and position. Financial statements, such as the balance sheet, income statement, and cash flow statement, provide critical information about a company’s assets, liabilities, revenues, and expenses. Stakeholders, including investors, creditors, and management, use this information to evaluate the company's profitability, liquidity, and overall stability. This assessment helps stakeholders make informed decisions regarding investments, lending, and operational strategies.

The emphasis on evaluating financial health stems from the need for transparency and accountability in business operations. By presenting data in a structured format, financial statements facilitate a clear understanding of how well a company is performing over a specific period and how it stands in comparison to prior periods or industry benchmarks. This insight is crucial for long-term planning and risk management.