What is a break-even analysis used for?

A break-even analysis is a financial assessment used to determine the sales volume at which total revenues equal total costs. This point is crucial for businesses as it helps them understand how many units they need to sell in order to cover all of their costs, both fixed and variable.

By calculating the break-even point, a company can set sales targets and make informed decisions regarding pricing and budgeting. Understanding this threshold allows businesses to gauge the minimum performance needed to avoid losses. It forms a foundational aspect of financial planning, enabling companies to forecast and strategize effectively.

The other options touch on important business elements, such as cost-saving measures, product profitability, and market demand. However, they do not specifically relate to the fundamental purpose of break-even analysis, which is singularly focused on identifying the intersection of total revenues and total costs, thereby guiding operational and financial decisions.