Question

Assume that sales are predicted to be $4,000, the expected contribution margin is $1,720, and a net loss of $280 is anticipated. The break-even point in sales dollars is:
a. $2,000.
b. $2,560.
c. $4,280 .
d. $2,000.
e. $4,651.

Answer 1

Answer:

e)  $4,651

Explanation:

The break-even point is the level of activity that a company must operate to have its total cost equal to its total revenue. At this level of activity, the business makes a zero profit, as the total contribution is exactly the same as the total fixed cost.

It is important for the business to have an idea of the number of customers or units of product to sell inorder for it to cover its total fixed cost. This is the information the break-point analysis seeks to provide.

Working it out

Break-point in sales = Total General fixed cost/ Contribution margin ratio

Contribution margin ratio (CMR): Contribution is sales less variable costs. And the contribution margin ratio is the proportion of sales that is earned as contribution. The higher the better.

CMR = contribution/sales

Fixed cost = Contribution + net loss

We can now apply all these relationships to the question given:

Fixed cost = 1720 + 280

                 = 4,000

Contribution margin ratio = 1720/400 = 43%

Break-even sales ($) = 4000/0.43

                                        = $4,651