Quick Start

If you’re familiar with contribution margin concepts, follow these steps to get started quickly.
1

Set Up

Download and open the Excel model. Enable editing if prompted.

2

Enter Baseline Imputs

Enter current unit price, unit costs, fixed costs, and unit sales volume.

3

Apply Pricing Changes

Select the change type (dollar or percent) and enter the adjustment.

4

Review Impact

Review updated margins, breakeven units, and profitability.

Getting Started

This section explains where to enter inputs and how to structure pricing scenarios.
  • Download and save the file locally
  • Enable editing when prompted
  • Review the pre-set structure, which is designed for quick input and automated outputs

All calculations update automatically as inputs change.

Enter the following baseline inputs in the designated fields:

  • Current Unit Price
  • Unit Variable Costs
  • Fixed Costs
  • Current Unit Sales Volume

These inputs establish the baseline contribution margin and breakeven point.

To model pricing scenarios:

  • Select the change type:
    Dollar change
    Percent change
  • Enter the amount of the change:
    Positive for increases
    Negative for decreases

You may also adjust unit sales assumptions to reflect expected demand changes.

How It Works

The calculator automatically recalculates:

  • Contribution margin
  • Contribution margin percentage
  • Breakeven units
  • Profit or loss

Key features:

  • Supports both positive and negative pricing changes
  • Handles dollar and percentage adjustments consistently
  • Displays results in a clear, decision-ready format

The model is designed to make pricing tradeoffs visible without complex modeling.

Best Practices

  • Test multiple scenarios to understand upside and downside risk
  • Use percentage changes when comparing pricing strategies across products
  • Revisit cost assumptions regularly — small cost changes can materially affect breakeven
  • Pair pricing analysis with market intelligence and competitive context

This tool is most effective when used as a decision support model, not a forecast.

Support & Next Steps

If something isn’t working as expected, review the items below before reaching out.
  • If outputs do not update, ensure Excel calculation mode is set to Automatic
  • Confirm the selected change type (dollar vs percent) matches the input entered

If issues persist:

Still need help? Email support@automatedaf.ai and include a screenshot of the issue.