How does the cost-volume-profit analysis benefit managers?

The selection of the second choice highlights a key advantage of cost-volume-profit (CVP) analysis in managerial decision-making. The primary benefit is its capability to assess how changes in costs and sales volume influence a company's profitability. This analytical tool enables managers to understand the relationships between fixed and variable costs, pricing, and the profits generated at different levels of sales.

By using CVP analysis, managers can make informed decisions regarding pricing strategies, product mix, and cost control measures. For instance, if there is an increase in variable costs or a change in sales volume, managers can quickly determine how these factors will affect overall profitability. This insight is crucial for strategic planning and allows for proactive adjustments to business operations.

Regarding the other options, while providing a historical overview of sales could be informative, it does not serve the immediate analytical purpose that CVP analysis is designed for. Similarly, calculating total revenue required for profitability, while relevant, does not encompass the broader implications of cost and volume changes. Lastly, ensuring compliance with financial regulations is outside the scope of what CVP analysis is intended to do; rather, its focus is on internal financial decision-making and management strategies.