CompTIA Project+ (PK0-005)Tools and DocumentationMedium
A project manager is reviewing the project schedule and notices that a particular sequence of tasks has zero float. This means that any delay in any of these tasks will directly impact the project's overall completion date. Which of the following terms describes this sequence of tasks?
- ASlack path
- BDependency chain
- CCritical path
- DFast-tracked path
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. Critical path
The critical path is defined as the sequence of activities that has the longest duration and therefore determines the shortest possible project completion time. Activities on the critical path have zero float, meaning any delay directly delays the project end date.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. A slack path (or path with float) is the opposite; it has flexibility in its schedule without delaying the project.
- B. A dependency chain is a general term for linked tasks, but not necessarily the one determining overall project duration.
- D. Fast-tracking is a schedule compression technique, not a definition of a task sequence with zero float.
Critical Path (Zero Float)
The longest sequence of scheduled activities that must be completed on time for the entire project to be completed on time. Activities on the critical path have zero float (slack), meaning no delays are permissible without extending the project duration.
- Determines the shortest possible project duration.
- Activities have no flexibility in their start or end dates.
- Requires close monitoring and management to prevent project delays.
Memory trick: Critical is zero float, Fast-track speeds, Dependency links, Slack allows give.