What is the main purpose of break-even analysis?

The main purpose of break-even analysis is to assess when total revenues equal total costs. This analysis helps businesses understand the minimum sales volume needed to cover their costs, indicating the point at which they will start to make a profit. By determining this break-even point, managers can make informed decisions regarding pricing, production levels, and financial planning. This understanding is crucial for strategic planning and can aid in predicting the financial viability of new products or services.

In contrast, focusing on profit determination or calculating operating expenses does not directly address the fundamental purpose of break-even analysis, which centers on the relationship between costs and revenues. Assessing monthly expenses, while important for overall financial management, does not provide the specific insight into sales volume and profitability that break-even analysis offers.