Accounting For Mangers B.com 6 Semester
Accounting For Mangers B.com 6 Semester
Year: Third
Semester: Sixth
Subject: Commerce
Unit-1
In simple words:
Management Accounting is like a tool that helps managers understand how the business is
doing, where it can improve, and what actions to take next.
Example:
Imagine a company that makes toys. If the management wants to know which toy is most
profitable, how much it costs to make each toy, and how they can reduce costs —
management accounting provides that information.
2. Concept of Management Accounting
The concept of management accounting is to turn accounting data into useful reports and
analysis for internal use. It is not for the public or investors, but for internal managers and
decision-makers only.
It combines ideas from financial accounting, cost accounting, statistics, economics, and
business strategies.
Example:
Let’s say the sales of a product dropped this month. Management accounting will help
analyze:
By using past data and market trends, managers can make smart decisions for the future.
Management accounting is used only by internal managers. It is not shared with outsiders
like investors or the government.
Example:
A manager sees a report showing high electricity costs in one department. They use this
internal report to plan energy-saving strategies. This information is not shared publicly.
(b) Future-Oriented
It helps managers make better decisions by giving clear and useful information.
Example:
A factory manager sees that Machine A costs more to run than Machine B. They may
decide to use Machine B more often to save money.
Management accounting reports can be made in any format – tables, charts, graphs, or
summaries – based on what the manager needs.
Example:
If the marketing manager wants to compare sales in different cities, the report can be shown
in a chart format for quick understanding.
It uses data from financial accounts, market research, production reports, and customer
feedback.
Example:
To decide whether to launch a new product, the manager may look at:
Management accounting is a continuous process. It does not happen only once a year like
financial reports. Reports can be made weekly, monthly, or even daily.
Example:
A store manager may receive daily sales and stock reports to keep track of fast-selling
items and reorder them quickly.
● You check the cost of making chocolate cakes – it is higher than other items.
● You also look at customer reviews — many complained about the taste.
Action:
You decide to improve the recipe, reduce the size a little to cut cost, and promote it more on
social media.
All these decisions were made using management accounting tools like cost analysis,
customer feedback, and sales reports.
Conclusion
Management Accounting is a powerful tool that helps managers make smart decisions. It
focuses on internal needs, looks towards the future, and provides useful reports to manage
the business better. Whether it's about reducing costs, increasing profits, or improving
performance, management accounting gives the right support with data and insights.
1. Purpose
● Financial Accounting is used to prepare financial statements like profit and loss
account, balance sheet, etc. for external users such as investors, banks, and
government.
2. Users
3. Time Focus
Example:
Financial Accounting shows last year’s total expenses.
Management Accounting creates a budget for the next 6 months.
4. Legal Requirement
● Management Accounting is not required by law, but useful for internal control.
● Management Accounting has no fixed format – reports can be made in any way.
Conclusion
Both types of accounting are important. Financial Accounting shows the overall health of the
company to outsiders. Management Accounting helps managers make better business
decisions by giving detailed internal reports.
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1. Meaning
- Cost Accounting is the process of recording, analyzing, and controlling the cost of
producing goods or services.
- Management Accounting is the process of using financial and non-financial information to
help managers make decisions.
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2. Key Differences
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3. Techniques Used
Techniques in Cost Accounting:
- Standard Costing – comparing actual cost with standard cost.
- Marginal Costing – cost per unit based on variable cost.
- Job Costing – cost related to a specific job or project.
Example:
If a company makes furniture, cost accounting will calculate how much wood, labor, and
electricity was used to make one chair.
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Example:
The manager uses a budget report to plan monthly expenses and decide whether to launch
a new product.
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4. Objectives
Example:
A bakery calculates that making one cake costs ₹50. So, they decide to sell it for ₹80 to
make a profit.
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Example:
A manager uses sales trends and cost data to decide which product to promote more.
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5. Importance
Importance of Cost Accounting:
- Controls production cost.
- Helps in setting competitive prices.
- Identifies waste and inefficiencies.
Example:
A clothing company finds that cloth wastage is increasing. Cost accounting helps identify the
cause and control it.
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Example:
Management accounting shows that one store location is performing poorly. The company
decides to shut it down and save money.
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Conclusion
Both Cost Accounting and Management Accounting are important for internal use.
- Cost Accounting focuses more on the cost of products and how to reduce expenses.
- Management Accounting focuses on the bigger picture – making smart decisions, planning,
and increasing profitability.
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Example:
If sales drop in one region, the management accountant checks reports and advises whether
to reduce price or increase marketing.
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A management accountant holds an important position in the company. They report directly
to the top management like the Finance Manager, CEO, or Directors. They work as an
advisor to help in key business decisions.
Example:
Before launching a new product, the CEO asks the management accountant to prepare a
cost-benefit analysis.
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- Controlling: Checks if expenses are within budget and finds out reasons for extra spending.
Example: If electricity costs are high, they find the cause.
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Example:
If the company is losing money, the management accountant must find the reason quickly
and suggest action.
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Conclusion
A Management Accountant is like the financial guide of a company. Their job is not just
about numbers, but also helping managers make smart decisions for better results.
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1. Meaning
Financial Statement Analysis means carefully studying the company’s financial statements
(like Profit & Loss Account and Balance Sheet) to understand its financial health,
performance, and future potential.
Interpretation means understanding what those numbers and trends tell about the business.
In simple words:
It is like reading between the lines of a company’s financial reports to know if the business is
doing well or not.
---
Example:
If a company’s sales are increasing every year but profit is decreasing, analysis helps us find
out why — maybe expenses are rising faster than sales.
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Example:
If a company has ₹5 lakh in assets and only ₹2 lakh in liabilities, it is financially strong.
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b. To Measure Profitability
Analysis helps check whether the company is making a good profit from its sales and
operations.
Example:
If a company earns ₹2 lakh profit on ₹10 lakh sales, it has a 20% profit margin.
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Example:
If two companies make the same product, but one uses fewer materials and time, it is more
efficient.
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d. To Help in Decision-Making
It helps investors, managers, and creditors make smart choices.
Example:
An investor may decide to buy shares of a company with strong profits and low debts.
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e. To Compare Performance
It allows comparison with past years or other companies.
Example:
A company compares this year’s profit with last year to see improvement or decline.
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a. Accuracy
All numbers should be correct and based on proper records.
Example:
If sales were ₹1 crore, the report must show exactly that — not guesswork.
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Example:
Proper headings, totals, and tables make the report understandable for everyone.
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c. Comparability
It should allow comparison over time or with other businesses.
Example:
Balance sheets of two years should have same format for easy comparison.
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d. Relevance
Only useful and related information should be included.
Example:
Including old or unrelated data will confuse the reader.
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e. Timeliness
The report must be made and shared at the right time.
Example:
If profit and loss statement comes months late, it becomes useless for quick decisions.
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f. Compliance
It should follow accounting standards (like GAAP or IFRS).
Example:
Depreciation should be calculated as per rules, not randomly.
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Conclusion
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Financial statements (like the Balance Sheet, Profit and Loss Statement, Cash Flow
Statement) are important because they show the financial health of a business. Many people
and groups use these statements for different purposes.
1. Owners / Shareholders:
They want to know how much profit the business is making and whether their investment is
safe.
Example: A person who bought shares in a company wants to check if the company is
making a profit and giving dividends.
2. Management:
They use financial statements to make decisions, plan the budget, and control expenses.
Example: A manager checks the profit and sales figures to plan next year’s budget.
3. Creditors / Suppliers:
They want to know if the company can pay their dues on time.
Example: A supplier who gives raw materials on credit checks the financial position of the
business before extending credit.
6. Employees:
They are interested in the company’s performance because it affects job security and
bonuses.
Example: If the company makes high profit, employees may expect salary hikes or bonuses.
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Financial analysis helps in understanding the financial statements better. There are three
major types:
Meaning:
Horizontal analysis compares financial data of two or more years. It helps to see the
increase or decrease in items like sales, expenses, or profits.
Formula:
(Change = Current Year - Previous Year)
(Percentage Change = Change / Previous Year × 100)
Example:
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Meaning:
Vertical analysis shows each item in the financial statement as a percentage of a base
amount.
- In Profit and Loss Account, the base is Sales (100%)
- In Balance Sheet, the base is Total Assets or Total Liabilities (100%)
Formula:
(Individual Item / Base Amount × 100)
Explanation: Vertical analysis helps in comparing cost and profit ratio. Here, gross profit is
40% of sales, which is a good margin.
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C. Trend Analysis
Meaning:
Trend analysis shows the direction of financial figures over several years. It helps to identify
whether the company is growing or not.
Formula:
(Trend % = (Current Year Amount / Base Year Amount) × 100)
Explanation:
The trend % shows that sales are increasing every year. It shows positive business growth.
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Conclusion:
Unit-2
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Example:
If a company has Net Profit of ₹1,00,000 and Sales of ₹5,00,000
Then, Net Profit Ratio = (1,00,000 / 5,00,000) × 100 = 20%
This means the company earns 20% profit on every ₹100 of sales.
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1. Management
It helps in decision-making, planning, and controlling business activities.
Example: Management can check if profit is decreasing and take action.
2. Investors
They can judge if the company is profitable and safe to invest.
Example: High return ratios attract investors.
3. Creditors / Lenders
They check if the company can repay loans on time.
Example: Current ratio and debt ratio help creditors.
4. Employees
They are interested in profitability as it may affect bonuses and job security.
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3. Classification of Ratios
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I. Profitability Ratios
These ratios show how much profit the company is earning compared to sales, capital, or
assets.
Formula:
Gross Profit Ratio = (Gross Profit / Sales) × 100
Example:
Sales = ₹10,00,000, Gross Profit = ₹4,00,000
Gross Profit Ratio = (4,00,000 / 10,00,000) × 100 = 40%
Meaning: The company earns ₹40 as gross profit for every ₹100 of sales.
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Formula:
Net Profit Ratio = (Net Profit / Sales) × 100
Example:
Sales = ₹10,00,000, Net Profit = ₹1,50,000
Net Profit Ratio = (1,50,000 / 10,00,000) × 100 = 15%
Meaning: The company earns ₹15 as net profit on every ₹100 of sales.
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Formula:
ROCE = (Net Profit Before Interest and Tax / Capital Employed) × 100
Example:
Net Profit = ₹2,00,000, Capital Employed = ₹10,00,000
ROCE = (2,00,000 / 10,00,000) × 100 = 20%
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These ratios show how efficiently the business is using its resources.
Formula:
Inventory Turnover = Cost of Goods Sold / Average Inventory
Example:
COGS = ₹5,00,000, Average Inventory = ₹1,00,000
Inventory Turnover = 5,00,000 / 1,00,000 = 5 times
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2. Debtors Turnover Ratio
Formula:
Debtors Turnover = Net Credit Sales / Average Debtors
Example:
Net Credit Sales = ₹8,00,000, Average Debtors = ₹2,00,000
Debtors Turnover = 8,00,000 / 2,00,000 = 4 times
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Formula:
Working Capital Turnover = Net Sales / Working Capital
Example:
Net Sales = ₹10,00,000, Working Capital = ₹2,00,000
Working Capital Turnover = 10,00,000 / 2,00,000 = 5 times
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These ratios tell us whether the company can pay its debts (liquidity) and how much it
depends on external loans (solvency).
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A. Liquidity Ratios
1. Current Ratio
Formula:
Current Ratio = Current Assets / Current Liabilities
Example:
Current Assets = ₹6,00,000, Current Liabilities = ₹3,00,000
Current Ratio = 6,00,000 / 3,00,000 = 2:1
Meaning: Company has ₹2 of assets for every ₹1 of short-term liability. A ratio of 2:1 is
considered ideal.
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Formula:
Quick Ratio = (Current Assets - Inventory) / Current Liabilities
Example:
Current Assets = ₹6,00,000, Inventory = ₹2,00,000, Current Liabilities = ₹3,00,000
Quick Ratio = (6,00,000 - 2,00,000) / 3,00,000 = 1.33:1
Meaning: Even without selling inventory, the company can pay ₹1.33 for every ₹1 due.
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B. Solvency Ratios
Formula:
Debt to Equity = Long-Term Debt / Shareholders' Equity
Example:
Debt = ₹5,00,000, Equity = ₹10,00,000
Debt to Equity = 5,00,000 / 10,00,000 = 0.5:1
Meaning: For every ₹1 of equity, the company has ₹0.50 of debt. Lower is better.
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Formula:
Interest Coverage = Net Profit Before Interest and Tax / Interest
Example:
NPBIT = ₹3,00,000, Interest = ₹1,00,000
Interest Coverage = 3,00,000 / 1,00,000 = 3 times
Meaning: Company earns 3 times more than its interest cost. Safer for lenders.
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Conclusion
Concept, Meaning of the term Fund and Preparation of Fund Flow Statement and
Cash Flow Statement (As-3).
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Fund Flow Statement shows the movement of funds (working capital) in a business between
two balance sheet dates.
It explains why working capital increased or decreased.
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Cash Flow Statement shows the movement of actual cash and cash equivalents in a
business during a specific period.
It is prepared as per Accounting Standard 3 (AS-3).
Purpose: To see how much cash came in and how much went out.
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2. Meaning of Fund
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| Sources of Fund |₹ |
|------------------------------|----------|
| Funds from Operations | 50,000 |
| Issue of Shares | 30,000 |
| Sale of Fixed Assets | 10,000 |
| Total Sources | 90,000 |
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Example:
| Particulars |₹ |
|--------------------------------|----------|
| Net Profit (after tax) | 1,00,000 |
| Add: Depreciation | 20,000 |
| Add: Loss on Sale of Machine | 5,000 |
| Less: Increase in Debtors | (10,000) |
| Less: Decrease in Creditors | (5,000) |
| Net Cash from Operating Activities | ₹1,10,000 |
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Example:
| Particulars |₹ |
|------------------------------|-----------|
| Purchase of Machinery | (50,000) |
| Sale of Investment | 20,000 |
| Net Cash used in Investing Activities | ₹(30,000) |
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Example:
| Particulars |₹ |
|-------------------------------|-----------|
| Issue of Shares | 40,000 |
| Repayment of Loan | (20,000) |
| Payment of Dividend | (10,000) |
| Net Cash from Financing Activities | ₹10,000 |
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| Particulars |₹ |
|------------------------------------------|-----------|
| Net Cash from Operating Activities | 1,10,000 |
| Net Cash used in Investing Activities | (30,000) |
| Net Cash from Financing Activities | 10,000 |
| Net Increase in Cash | ₹90,000 |
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Conclusion
- Fund Flow Statement shows how working capital changed due to business activities.
- Cash Flow Statement (AS-3) shows inflows and outflows of cash.
- Both are useful to analyze financial strength, liquidity, and business efficiency.
Unit-3
Budget:
A budget is a detailed plan that shows the expected income and expenses for a business
or individual during a certain period, like a month or a year. It helps in planning, controlling,
and monitoring the financial activities of a business.
Example:
If a company expects to earn ₹50,00,000 in sales and spends ₹30,00,000 on production
costs, the budget will show these numbers to ensure that the business does not overspend.
Budgeting:
Budgeting is the process of creating and managing a budget. It involves planning the
income and expenses and making sure the business stays within the limits of the budget.
Example:
A business may create a budget for the next year that includes how much money they plan
to spend on marketing, salaries, and raw materials. The goal is to manage resources
efficiently.
2. Objectives of Budgeting
A budget helps businesses keep control over their finances by setting spending limits and
ensuring they do not exceed the planned costs.
Example:
If a company sets a marketing budget of ₹5,00,000 for the year, it can prevent overspending
by monitoring expenses closely.
Budgeting helps businesses plan for the future by setting goals, estimating income, and
determining how much to spend to achieve those goals.
Example:
A business may set a target of increasing its revenue by 10% next year. Budgeting helps
allocate resources to achieve this target.
C. Helps in Decision-Making
Budgets provide a clear view of the financial situation, which helps business managers make
better decisions.
Example:
If a company sees that their expenses are higher than expected in the budget, they may
decide to reduce costs or find ways to increase revenue.
D. Performance Evaluation
Budgets serve as a basis for evaluating business performance by comparing actual results
with the planned figures.
Example:
If a company has spent ₹6,00,000 on marketing but budgeted ₹5,00,000, the management
will analyze why the overrun occurred and take corrective action.
3. Limitations of Budgeting
A. Time-Consuming
Creating a budget can take a lot of time, especially for large businesses with many
departments. It requires collecting data, analyzing past trends, and predicting future costs.
Example:
A company may need to spend several weeks gathering information from different
departments before preparing the budget.
B. Limited Accuracy
Budgets are based on predictions and assumptions. These assumptions may not always be
accurate, especially when unexpected events happen.
Example:
A business may plan to sell 10,000 units of a product, but due to a sudden market change,
they may only sell 8,000 units, making the budget inaccurate.
C. Rigidity
A strict budget can sometimes be too rigid and may not allow for flexibility when unforeseen
opportunities or problems arise.
Example:
If a business has an inflexible marketing budget and a sudden opportunity for a large ad
campaign comes up, it may not have the funds to take advantage of it.
4. Importance of Budgeting
A. Financial Control
A budget allows businesses to control their finances and avoid overspending. It helps
businesses stick to their financial goals.
Example:
By sticking to a budget, a company can avoid taking on too much debt or spending more
than they earn, helping maintain financial health.
Example:
A business may allocate more funds for production to increase output while reducing
unnecessary spending in other areas like office supplies.
A budget helps businesses set and achieve specific financial goals, such as increasing
profits or expanding operations.
Example:
A company might create a budget to save ₹1,00,000 for new machinery by the end of the
year. The budget will allocate funds each month to achieve this goal.
Budgeting encourages departments and employees to take responsibility for their costs. It
helps in motivating them to meet targets and improve efficiency.
Example:
If the sales team has a budget for advertising and promotional activities, they will work
harder to ensure they stay within that budget.
Conclusion
Business budgeting is essential for managing finances, achieving goals, and ensuring the
company remains financially stable. While it has limitations like being time-consuming and
sometimes inaccurate, its benefits, like providing financial control, guiding decision-making,
and helping in resource allocation, are crucial for business success.
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A. Clear Objectives
A budget should be created with clear goals in mind. These goals could be increasing profit,
controlling costs, or investing in growth. The objectives must be specific, measurable,
achievable, realistic, and time-bound (SMART).
Example:
A business might have a goal to increase sales by 10% in the next year. The budget will
allocate money to marketing, advertising, and product development to achieve this goal.
B. Accurate Data
For a budget to be effective, it must be based on accurate and realistic data. This includes
past performance, market trends, and expected future conditions. If the data is incorrect, the
budget will be misleading.
Example:
If a company plans to produce 10,000 units of a product but only has the resources to
produce 8,000, the budget should reflect this capacity.
C. Flexibility
A good budget should be flexible enough to adapt to unexpected changes. It should allow for
adjustments if market conditions, sales, or costs change unexpectedly.
Example:
If raw material prices suddenly rise due to supply chain issues, the budget should allow for
an increase in spending in that area.
Example:
If a business has spent more on marketing than planned, the management needs to
investigate why and whether it’s necessary or can be controlled.
Effective budgeting involves input from key people in the organization, such as department
heads or managers, as they have the best knowledge of their area’s needs and costs.
Example:
The marketing manager should be involved in setting the marketing budget because they
understand the market and expected costs better than anyone else.
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2. Classification of Budgets
Budgets can be classified into various types based on their purpose and approach. Two
important types of budgets are:
A. Flexible Budget
A Flexible Budget adjusts according to the level of activity or production. It is not fixed and
can be modified based on actual performance or changes in business conditions.
Example:
If a company initially plans to produce 1,000 units of a product, the budget will be based on
this number. But if actual production is 1,200 units, the flexible budget will adjust to show the
expected changes in costs (like raw materials and labor).
Example:
A restaurant might have a flexible budget for food and beverage costs. If the number of
customers increases, the budget will adjust for the extra costs of food and staff.
B. Zero-Based Budget
A Zero-Based Budget (ZBB) starts from zero every time a new budget is created. Unlike
traditional budgeting, where previous budgets are carried forward with incremental changes,
ZBB requires each expense to be justified for every period.
Example:
For a marketing budget, if last year’s budget was ₹5,00,000, in ZBB, the marketing manager
must justify every expense for the new year, even if it is the same as last year. They might
need to prove why ₹5,00,000 is needed again, rather than simply carrying it forward.
- Helps in aligning the budget with current goals rather than relying on historical spending.
Example:
A company may be spending money on an old advertising campaign that doesn’t work
anymore. ZBB forces them to rethink the budget and possibly redirect the funds to a new
campaign.
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3. Conclusion
Essentials of effective budgeting include clear goals, accurate data, flexibility, regular
monitoring, and participation from key stakeholders. Flexible budgets allow businesses to
adjust according to changes in activity levels, while zero-based budgets require every
expense to be justified from scratch. Both types of budgets have their uses, depending on
the business’s needs, and can help in achieving financial control and planning effectively.
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Marginal costing is a costing technique used to determine the cost of producing one
additional unit of a product. It focuses on the variable costs (costs that change with the level
of production) and ignores fixed costs (costs that remain constant regardless of production
levels). The main idea is to assess how costs behave when production is increased or
decreased.
Example:
If a company produces 1,000 units of a product and the total variable cost is ₹50,000, then
the marginal cost per unit is ₹50. This means each additional unit costs ₹50 to produce.
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In marginal costing, the profit is determined by calculating the contribution margin, which is
the difference between sales revenue and variable costs. Fixed costs are not included in this
calculation because they are considered period costs (expenses that are fixed regardless of
production levels).
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2. Variable Costs: Costs that vary with the production level (e.g., raw materials, direct labor).
3. Fixed Costs: Costs that do not change with production levels (e.g., rent, salaries).
Example:
Let’s assume a company sells a product for ₹100 per unit. The variable cost per unit is ₹60,
and fixed costs are ₹30,000. The company produces 1,000 units.
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Pricing decisions are crucial for any business. Under marginal costing, the pricing strategy is
based on variable costs and the desired contribution margin. The business needs to cover
its fixed costs and earn a profit, so pricing must reflect the variable cost and include an
amount for contribution.
\[
\text{Price per Unit} = \text{Variable Cost per Unit} + \text{Desired Contribution per Unit}
\]
Example:
Let’s say the variable cost per unit is ₹60, and the business wants to achieve a contribution
margin of ₹40 per unit to cover fixed costs and make a profit.
- Price per Unit = ₹60 (variable cost) + ₹40 (contribution margin) = ₹100
Thus, the price per unit should be ₹100 to ensure that the business covers its variable costs
and contributes towards fixed costs and profit.
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- If the variable cost of making the product is less than the purchase price, it is better to
make the product in-house.
Example:
A company is considering whether to buy a component for ₹50 from an external supplier or
make it in-house. The variable cost of making the component is ₹40, and fixed costs for
production are ₹10,000.
If the company buys the component, it will incur a cost of ₹50. However, if it makes the
component in-house, the cost per unit is ₹40, and fixed costs of ₹10,000 must also be
considered.
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Choosing the most profitable channel refers to selecting the right sales or distribution
channel that will maximize profitability. This can involve direct sales, retail distribution, online
sales, or wholesalers.
Using marginal costing, a business can analyze the profitability of different channels by
calculating the contribution margin for each channel. The channel with the highest
contribution margin should be selected, as it covers fixed costs faster and contributes more
to profit.
3. Select the channel with the highest contribution margin and lowest fixed costs.
Example:
- Channel 2 (Retailers):
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Conclusion:
Even though Channel 1 has a higher contribution per unit, Channel 2 has a higher overall
profit because more units are sold. Therefore, Channel 2 is the most profitable.
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Conclusion
Marginal costing is a useful technique for making important business decisions. It helps
determine profit by focusing on variable costs, assists in pricing products, aids in
make-or-buy decisions, and helps select the most profitable distribution channel. By focusing
on the contribution margin and variable costs, businesses can improve their decision-making
and ensure better financial control.
4…. Break Even Analysis: Concept and Practical Applications of Break even Analysis.
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Break Even Analysis is a financial tool used to determine the point at which a business’s
total revenues equal its total costs, meaning there is neither a profit nor a loss. This point is
called the Break Even Point (BEP). It is very useful for businesses to understand how many
units of a product need to be sold to cover all fixed and variable costs.
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\]
At this point, the business has no profit but also no loss. Any sales above this point
contribute to profit.
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The Break Even Point can be calculated using the following formula:
\[
\text{Break Even Point (in units)} = \frac{\text{Fixed Costs}}{\text{Selling Price per Unit} -
\text{Variable Cost per Unit}}
\]
- Fixed Costs: These are the costs that remain the same regardless of the number of units
produced, such as rent, salaries, etc.
- Selling Price per Unit: The price at which each unit of the product is sold.
- Variable Cost per Unit: The cost that changes with the production level, such as raw
materials, direct labor, etc.
---
Let’s assume a company manufactures and sells a product. Here are the details:
\[
\text{Break Even Point (in units)} = \frac{50,000}{100 - 60} = \frac{50,000}{40} = 1,250 \text{
units}
\]
This means the company needs to sell 1,250 units to cover its fixed and variable costs. Any
sales beyond 1,250 units will contribute to profit.
---
Businesses can use the break even point to set sales targets. If they know they need to sell
1,250 units to break even, they can aim to sell more than that to earn a profit. This helps in
setting realistic sales goals.
Example:
A business aiming for a 20% profit margin may target selling 1,500 units. This will cover fixed
and variable costs, and the remaining units will contribute to the desired profit.
B. Pricing Decisions
Break even analysis helps businesses determine how to price their products. If they want to
achieve a specific profit margin, they can adjust the price or reduce costs based on the
break even point.
Example:
If the company wants to earn a profit of ₹20,000, they can calculate how many units need to
be sold beyond the break even point.
\[
\]
When launching a new product, businesses can use break even analysis to decide if it’s
worth the investment. They need to estimate how many units they must sell to cover the
initial costs and decide whether it's feasible.
Example:
If a company plans to launch a new product with high fixed costs (e.g., marketing expenses,
setup costs), break even analysis can help determine whether the product will be profitable
in the long run or if the business should reconsider.
D. Risk Assessment
Break even analysis helps businesses assess the risk of a particular product. If the break
even point is too high, the business may face a greater risk if sales do not meet
expectations.
Example:
If the fixed costs of a new product are ₹100,000, the business will need to sell many units at
a certain price to cover these costs. If the break even point seems too high, the business
might reduce its fixed costs or reconsider the product's price or production scale.
---
While break even analysis is a useful tool, it does have some limitations:
- Simplification of Costs: It assumes that all costs can be divided into fixed and variable
categories, but in reality, some costs may not be so clear-cut.
- Constant Prices: It assumes that selling price and variable costs remain constant, but
prices may fluctuate due to market conditions, competition, or changes in production.
- Single Product Focus: Break even analysis works well when a business is focusing on one
product. For businesses with multiple products, a more complex analysis is needed.
---
Conclusion
Break even analysis is a valuable tool for businesses to understand the point at which they
cover their costs and begin to make a profit. It helps in making important decisions about
pricing, sales targets, risk assessment, and new product launches. By understanding the
break even point, businesses can improve their financial planning and increase their
chances of success.
Unit-4
1…Standard Costing and Variance Analysis: Meaning and Objectives of Standard
Costing Setting of Standard.
Standard Costing and Variance Analysis: Meaning, Objectives, and Setting of Standard
Standard Costing is a system used in cost accounting to establish predetermined costs for
products or services. These costs, known as standard costs, represent the expected costs
for production, which are then compared with the actual costs incurred. The difference
between the standard cost and the actual cost is known as a variance. Variance analysis
helps in identifying the reasons for these differences and taking corrective actions if needed.
---
Standard costing involves setting a target cost for a product or service that a business
expects to incur under normal operating conditions. These costs serve as benchmarks,
which are then compared with the actual costs during the production process. When actual
costs exceed standard costs, the difference is an unfavorable variance, indicating that costs
are higher than expected. Conversely, if actual costs are less than standard costs, the
variance is favorable, indicating cost savings.
In simpler terms, standard costing helps businesses set expectations for costs and monitor
whether they are operating within those expectations.
---
Standard costing is used for several important reasons, which help in improving the financial
control and performance of a business. The main objectives of standard costing include:
A. Cost Control
One of the primary objectives of standard costing is to control costs. By comparing actual
costs with standard costs, a business can identify areas where costs are higher than
expected. This allows managers to take corrective actions to reduce these costs and
improve profitability.
Example:
Suppose a company has set a standard cost of ₹30 per unit for direct materials. If the actual
cost turns out to be ₹35 per unit, the variance analysis would highlight this excess. The
company can then investigate why the cost is higher and find ways to control it.
B. Performance Evaluation
Standard costing helps evaluate the performance of departments, managers, and the overall
production process. By analyzing the variances between actual and standard costs,
businesses can determine whether the operations are running efficiently or if improvements
are necessary.
Example:
A manager might be responsible for controlling labor costs in a production unit. If the actual
labor cost is higher than the standard cost, the manager's performance can be evaluated
based on whether they met their cost control targets.
C. Pricing Decisions
Standard costing helps businesses set product prices based on expected costs. By knowing
the standard costs of producing a product, businesses can set a price that ensures covering
all costs and generating a profit.
Example:
If the standard cost to produce a product is ₹150 (including materials, labor, and overhead),
the company can add a margin to determine a selling price that will cover costs and provide
a profit.
D. Budgeting and Planning
Standard costs are essential for creating budgets and financial plans. By predicting the costs
of materials, labor, and overheads, businesses can estimate the total cost of production and
plan their financial strategies accordingly.
Example:
Before launching a new product, a company will set standard costs for production. This
helps them create a budget for manufacturing, marketing, and other related expenses, and
determine if the project is financially viable.
---
Setting standard costs involves determining the expected costs for materials, labor, and
overheads under normal operating conditions. These costs are calculated based on
historical data, industry norms, and the company’s previous performance.
The standard material cost is the expected cost of raw materials needed to produce a
product. It is determined by multiplying the standard price per unit of material by the
standard quantity of material required for one unit of production.
- Formula:
\[
\]
Example:
If the standard price for a unit of material is ₹20, and 3 units of material are required to
produce one product, the standard material cost would be:
\[
\]
The standard labor cost is the expected cost of labor required to produce a product. It is
calculated by multiplying the standard labor rate (wage rate per hour) by the standard time
required to produce one unit.
- Formula:
\[
\]
Example:
If the standard labor rate is ₹25 per hour and it takes 2 hours to produce one unit, the
standard labor cost would be:
\[
\]
The standard overhead cost is the expected cost for indirect expenses (e.g., factory utilities,
depreciation, and maintenance). It is calculated based on the predetermined overhead rate
and the standard activity level (usually labor hours or machine hours).
- Formula:
\[
\]
Example:
If the predetermined overhead rate is ₹30 per labor hour and it takes 2 hours of labor to
produce one product, the standard overhead cost would be:
\[
\]
---
4. Variance Analysis
Once standard costs are set, businesses compare them with actual costs incurred to identify
variances. These variances help businesses understand why actual costs deviate from the
expected costs and take corrective actions if needed.
A. Material Variance
This variance shows the difference between the standard cost of materials and the actual
cost of materials used.
- Formula:
\[
\text{Material Variance} = (\text{Actual Quantity} - \text{Standard Quantity}) \times
\text{Standard Price}
\]
B. Labor Variance
This variance shows the difference between the standard cost of labor and the actual cost of
labor used.
- Formula:
\[
\]
C. Overhead Variance
This variance shows the difference between the standard overhead costs and the actual
overhead costs.
- Formula:
\[
\]
---
5. Conclusion
Standard costing is a useful technique for managing costs, setting budgets, and evaluating
performance. By setting standard costs for materials, labor, and overhead, businesses can
more easily track their performance and take corrective actions when needed. Variance
analysis helps identify where actual costs deviate from expected costs, which allows
managers to take steps to improve efficiency and profitability.
This system, while highly beneficial, requires careful monitoring and frequent updates to
ensure that standards reflect current production conditions.
Variance Analysis helps businesses compare the actual costs with the standard costs and
identify the reasons behind differences. The two common types of variances analyzed are
Material Variance and Labor Variance.
---
1. Material Variance
Material Variance refers to the difference between the standard cost of materials and the
actual cost of materials used in production. It is divided into two main types:
This is the difference between the actual price paid for materials and the standard price
expected, multiplied by the actual quantity used.
- Formula:
\[
\text{Material Price Variance} = (\text{Actual Price} - \text{Standard Price}) \times
\text{Actual Quantity}
\]
Example:
Let’s say the standard price for a material is ₹20 per unit, but the company actually paid ₹22
per unit. If the company used 100 units of this material, the material price variance would be:
\[
\text{Material Price Variance} = (₹22 - ₹20) \times 100 = ₹2 \times 100 = ₹200 \text{
(Unfavorable)}
\]
This means the company spent ₹200 more than expected on materials due to the higher
price.
This is the difference between the actual quantity of material used and the standard quantity
allowed for the production, multiplied by the standard price.
- Formula:
\[
\]
Example:
If the standard quantity of material needed to produce one unit is 3 kg, but the company
used 4 kg to produce one unit, with a standard price of ₹20 per kg, the material quantity
variance would be:
\[
\]
This means the company used more material than expected, leading to an additional cost of
₹20.
---
2. Labor Variance
Labor Variance refers to the difference between the standard cost of labor and the actual
cost of labor used in production. It is also divided into two main types:
This is the difference between the actual rate paid for labor and the standard labor rate,
multiplied by the actual hours worked.
- Formula:
\[
\]
Example:
If the standard labor rate is ₹100 per hour, but the company paid ₹120 per hour for the actual
labor, and the actual labor hours worked were 50 hours, the labor rate variance would be:
\[
\text{Labor Rate Variance} = (₹120 - ₹100) \times 50 = ₹20 \times 50 = ₹1,000 \text{
(Unfavorable)}
\]
This means the company paid ₹1,000 more than expected for labor due to the higher rate.
This is the difference between the actual hours worked and the standard hours expected to
produce a certain number of units, multiplied by the standard labor rate.
- Formula:
\[
\]
Example:
If the standard hours required to produce one unit is 2 hours, but the actual hours worked
were 3 hours per unit, with a standard labor rate of ₹100 per hour, the labor efficiency
variance would be:
\[
\]
This means the company spent more time than expected to produce each unit, resulting in
an additional labor cost of ₹100.
---
Conclusion
Material and Labor Variances help businesses identify the reasons for cost differences and
take corrective actions. Material price variance shows if the company paid more for materials
than expected, and material quantity variance shows if more materials were used. Similarly,
labor rate variance indicates if labor costs were higher than expected, while labor efficiency
variance reveals if more hours were spent on production. By analyzing these variances,
companies can improve their cost management and make more informed decisions.
---
Example:
---
A. Decision-Making Support
Reports provide accurate and timely information that helps managers make decisions about
the direction of the business, resource allocation, and problem-solving.
Example:
If a sales report indicates a decrease in sales, the management might decide to revise
marketing strategies or offer promotions to increase sales.
B. Performance Evaluation
Reports help management assess the performance of various departments and employees.
By comparing actual performance against planned targets, management can determine if
objectives are being met.
Example:
A report comparing the actual number of units sold with the target sales will help the
management evaluate the effectiveness of the sales team.
Reports help managers in planning and forecasting future activities by providing data on past
performance and trends.
Example:
A finance report showing trends in revenues and expenses helps the management plan the
budget for the next quarter.
Reporting helps in monitoring progress against set goals. By identifying variances between
planned and actual performance, corrective actions can be taken.
Example:
If the production report shows a deviation from the target production level, management can
investigate the cause and take corrective measures.
---
3. Principles of Reporting
There are certain principles that must be followed for effective reporting:
A. Accuracy
Reports must be accurate, providing correct and truthful information. Inaccurate data can
lead to wrong decisions and may harm the organization.
Example:
In financial reports, the figures for revenue and expenses must be accurate to ensure that
the financial statements reflect the true performance of the business.
B. Clarity
Reports should be clear and easy to understand. Complex or unclear reports can confuse
managers and lead to misinterpretation.
Example:
A sales report should clearly indicate sales figures, growth rates, and areas of improvement,
using charts and graphs where necessary for easy understanding.
C. Relevance
Only relevant information should be included in the report. Including unnecessary details can
overwhelm the reader and detract from the main points.
Example:
In a monthly financial report, it is important to focus on key metrics such as profits, losses,
and cash flow rather than irrelevant details about individual transactions.
D. Timeliness
Reports should be submitted on time, so that management can take prompt actions based
on the information provided.
Example:
A weekly production report should be delivered at the end of the week to ensure that the
management can evaluate performance and take corrective actions before the next
production cycle.
E. Objectivity
Reports should present facts without bias or subjective opinions. Objective reports help in
fair decision-making.
Example:
An employee performance report should focus on the facts, such as productivity and
punctuality, rather than subjective judgments about the employee’s behavior.
---
4. Importance of Reports
A. Informed Decision-Making
Reports provide the necessary data and insights that allow managers to make informed
decisions.
Example:
A market research report helps managers understand customer preferences, enabling them
to design products that meet market demand.
B. Facilitates Communication
Reports act as a communication tool between different levels of management. They ensure
that the information flows smoothly from lower levels to top management.
Example:
A departmental manager submits weekly reports to the senior management about the team's
performance, issues, and achievements.
C. Performance Tracking
Reports help track the progress of ongoing projects and performance against set goals.
Example:
A project progress report shows whether milestones are being achieved on time or if there
are any delays in the project.
D. Provides Accountability
Reports hold departments and individuals accountable for their performance. By tracking
progress through reports, management can identify who is responsible for any deviations
from the plan.
Example:
A report showing that the marketing department did not meet its lead generation targets will
highlight the issue and hold the department accountable for corrective actions.
---
5. Classification of Reports
Reports can be classified in various ways based on their frequency, purpose, and audience:
A. Based on Frequency
- Routine Reports: These are prepared regularly (daily, weekly, or monthly) and provide
information on ongoing activities. Examples include sales reports, production reports, and
financial reports.
Example:
A weekly sales report shows the total number of units sold, revenue generated, and
comparisons with the previous week.
- Ad-Hoc Reports: These are prepared as and when needed, typically to address specific
issues or situations. These reports are not regular and are generated for special requests.
Example:
A special report might be prepared to analyze the reason for a sudden drop in sales or to
assess the impact of a new product launch.
B. Based on Purpose
- Informative Reports: These provide facts and figures without offering any analysis or
recommendations. Their primary purpose is to inform the reader.
Example:
- Analytical Reports: These reports analyze data and provide insights, often with
recommendations for action.
Example:
A financial report that compares actual expenses against the budget and provides
suggestions for cost reduction is an analytical report.
C. Based on Audience
- Internal Reports: These are created for internal management and employees to track
performance, monitor progress, and make decisions.
Example:
A report summarizing employee performance, productivity, and goals for the month is an
internal report.
- External Reports: These are created for external stakeholders such as investors,
customers, and regulatory authorities.
Example:
---
Reports differ at various management levels based on the nature of information required:
A. Top-Level Management
Top-level managers require reports that provide an overview of the entire organization’s
performance. These reports typically include high-level summaries and strategic insights.
Example:
B. Middle-Level Management
Middle-level managers typically need reports that give more detailed information about
departmental performance. These reports help in monitoring the execution of strategies and
operational plans.
Example:
A middle-level manager may receive a report detailing the monthly sales performance, costs,
and employee productivity within a specific department.
C. Lower-Level Management
Lower-level managers need reports that provide details on day-to-day operations and
task-specific performance. These reports help in monitoring and controlling the work of
teams.
Example:
A daily production report showing the number of units produced, any issues faced, and the
status of machinery would be submitted to a lower-level manager overseeing the production
floor.
---
Conclusion
Reporting to management plays a crucial role in providing necessary data and analysis that
supports decision-making, performance evaluation, and the achievement of organizational
goals. By following principles like accuracy, clarity, and relevance, organizations can ensure
that reports are effective. Classification of reports helps in organizing information for specific
needs at different management levels, enabling efficient communication and control.
The End
Intragram; ankitdube1
Ishme formula (text√) yesa printing ke samy error ho gya h formula n pade.