What is the primary purpose of standard costing MCQ?

Primary Purpose of Standard Costing

Standard costing is a technique used in accounting to establish predetermined costs for products or services based on expected materials, labor, and overhead expenses. It provides a benchmark for comparing actual costs incurred during production, thereby highlighting variances and aiding in performance analysis and decision-making.

Multiple Choice Question (MCQ)

What is the primary purpose of standard costing?

(A) To eliminate the need for actual cost accounting
(B) To provide a basis for comparison with actual costs
(C) To simplify the recording of costs
(D) To ensure profitability

Answer: B

Explanation:

The primary purpose of standard costing is to provide a basis for comparison with actual costs. By comparing standard costs with actual expenses and revenues, organizations can identify variances that indicate deviations from expected outcomes. This allows them to pinpoint areas where improvements can be made to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and ultimately improve financial performance.