In CPM scheduling, if an activity has a total float of 5 days and free float of 2 days, what happens if this activity is delayed by 3 days?
Correct Answer
D) The next activity will be delayed by 1 day
With 2 days of free float, a 3-day delay will consume the free float and delay the next activity by 1 day (3-2=1). The project completion won't be affected since total float exceeds the delay.
Why This Is the Correct Answer
Free float represents the maximum delay an activity can experience without affecting the start of its immediate successor activities. Since this activity has 2 days of free float and is delayed by 3 days, the free float absorbs 2 days of the delay, leaving 1 day that will push back the start of the next activity. The total float of 5 days is greater than the 3-day delay, so the project's critical path and completion date remain unaffected.
Why the Other Options Are Wrong
Option A: The project remains on schedule
The project schedule is affected because the 3-day delay exceeds the 2-day free float, meaning the next activity will be delayed by 1 day even though the overall project completion remains on schedule.
Option B: The project completion date will be delayed by 3 days
Not all subsequent activities will be delayed by the full 3 days. Only 1 day of delay (3 days minus 2 days of free float) will affect the next activity, and subsequent activities may have their own float to absorb delays.
Option C: All subsequent activities will be delayed by 3 days
The project completion date will not be delayed because the total float (5 days) is greater than the delay (3 days). Total float represents the maximum delay an activity can experience without affecting the project completion date.
Memory Technique
FREE float = affects the NEXT activity FREE of charge. Total float = affects the TOTAL project. Formula: Next Activity Delay = Activity Delay - Free Float (if positive)
Reference Hint
Look up CPM scheduling, float calculations, and activity relationships in the project management or scheduling chapter of your contractor reference manual
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