Break-Even Calculations (Cambridge (CIE) IGCSE Business): Revision Note

Calculating the break-even point

• The break-even point can be calculated using one of two formulas

  • The first calculates the number of units which need to be sold to break-even

• The second calculates the value of the costs and revenue at which point the firm breaks even

The margin of safety

• The margin of safety is the amount by which the number of units sold is greater than the break even point

• The margin of safety provides useful information to a firm on how many sales they could lose before they start making a loss

• The margin of safety can be calculated using the following formula:

• Businesses want their margin of safety to be as large as possible

  • This means that if demand for their products drops unexpectedly, the business will continue to make a profit

Using break-even analysis to make decisions

• Break-even calculations are a useful tool for a business to use in deciding how much to produce and calculating estimated levels of profit

• It is particularly useful for communicating with stakeholders, including investors or lenders

  • Knowing when the business will break-even or how much profit it is expected to make may attract or deter shareholders from investing in the business

• Break-even analysis provides a basis for informed decision making

  • It helps the business to assess the costs and expected returns of new projects and expansion plans

    • By considering the break-even point, businesses can assess the potential risks and rewards associated with different decisions

Ways in which break-even is used in decision making

Assessing the profit or loss

• It allows businesses to assess their profitability by determining the minimum level of sales needed to cover all costs

• It helps identify the level of sales required to avoid losses and provides a target for achieving profits

Managing the costs

• Break-even analysis helps in identifying fixed and variable costs and their impact on the business

• By understanding the cost structure businesses can evaluate their spending patterns and reduce unnecessary expenses

Pricing decisions

• Break-even analysis provides insights into pricing decisions by helping businesses determine the minimum price required to cover costs and achieve the desired level of profit

• It ensures that prices are set at a level that generates sufficient revenue to meet expenses and generate profits

Financial planning

• Break-even analysis assists in financial planning by providing a reference point for target setting, such as realistic sales targets and plans for necessary expenses

Redrawing the graph with changes

• Break-even analysis allows businesses to see the impact of changes in variables such as costs, prices, and sales volumes on the break-even point

• This helps in understanding the potential risks and uncertainties, such as a new competitor entering the market or suppliers increasing prices

Performance monitoring

• Break-even analysis serves as a benchmark for monitoring business performance over time

• By comparing actual sales and costs against the break-even point, businesses can assess their financial health and track progress