Which step is a practical budgeting practice for a women's ministry event?

Prepare for the COGIC Department of Women Exam with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each with hints and explanations. Enhance your knowledge and get ready for your exam!

Setting a target cost gives you a concrete budget goal to work toward. It anchors planning decisions—venue, meals, decorations, materials, and outreach—so you know what fits within the available funds. With a target, you can present the plan to church leaders, seek sponsorship, and set expectations for fundraising, all while having a clear benchmark to compare actual spending against. When costs come in higher or lower than the goal, you can adjust proactively rather than overshooting or scrambling at the last minute. Including a reasonable contingency is wise, but avoiding one altogether undermines the plan and can lead to shortages if surprises arise.