Application of the LIFO and FIFO Inventory Methods Result in Differences

question 1

Essay

Application of the LIFO and FIFO inventory methods result in differences in the balance sheet, income statement and cash flow statement. Compare and contrast the effect of the two methods on each financial statement and determine the advantages and disadvantages of each method.

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Definitions:

Variable Costing

An accounting method that includes only variable production costs (direct materials, direct labor, and variable manufacturing overhead) in product cost calculations, excluding fixed overhead.

Break-Even Sales

The amount of revenue from sales at which a business covers its costs, without making a profit or incurring a loss.

Common Fixed Expenses

Overheads that are consistent in amount across different business segments, departments, or products.

Operating Period

The time frame during which a business operates to achieve its set objectives, which can be measured daily, monthly, quarterly, or annually.