Maxwell Corporation Is Trying to Predict Its Manufacturing Overhead Costs

question 18

Essay

Maxwell Corporation is trying to predict its manufacturing overhead costs for the upcoming year; they are debating the use of the high-low method versus the use of regression analysis. They have gathered information about their manufacturing overhead costs in each of the past six months. A table containing their cost data and the associated machine hours in each month (the cost driver) follows.

The company performed a regression analysis using the above data and had the following results. (Note: the results are excerpts so not all of the regression analysis results are presented.)
Required:
1. What is the cost equation if the high-low method is used to estimate costs?
2. Using the high-low method, predict total manufacturing overhead costs if Maxwell Corporation uses 12,000 hours.
3 What is the cost equation if regression analysis is used to estimate costs (use the results from the regression analysis provided)?
4. Using regression analysis, predict total manufacturing overhead costs if Maxwell Corporation uses 12,000 hours.
5. Which method is generally the best predictor of costs? Justify your answer.

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Definitions:

S-R Association

A concept in learning theory that suggests a connection or association is formed between a specific stimulus (S) and a specific response (R).

Social Learning

A theory that suggests people can learn new behaviors and acquire new information by observing others.

Dweck's Motivational Theory

Carol Dweck's theory proposing that individuals possess fixed or growth mindsets that significantly influence their learning, effort, and resilience in the face of challenges.

Implicit Theories

Beliefs or assumptions that individuals hold about how certain traits or abilities can change over time; these often guide behavior and interpretations of oneself and others.