In Critical Path Method (CPM) scheduling, what is the float time for activities that are on the critical path?
Correct Answer
A) Zero days
Activities on the critical path have zero float time by definition, meaning any delay in these activities will delay the entire project. Float time only exists for non-critical path activities.
Why This Is the Correct Answer
Activities on the critical path have zero float time by definition because they represent the longest sequence of dependent activities through the project network. Any delay in a critical path activity directly extends the project completion date since there is no buffer time available. Float time (also called slack) only exists when an activity can be delayed without affecting the project end date, which is impossible for critical path activities.
Why the Other Options Are Wrong
Option B: One day minimum
One day minimum is incorrect because critical path activities have exactly zero float, not a minimum of one day. Having any float time, even one day, would mean the activity is not on the critical path by definition.
Option C: Equal to the project duration
Equal to project duration is incorrect because float time measures how long an individual activity can be delayed, not the total project length. Critical path activities cannot be delayed at all without extending the project, so their float is zero, not the entire project duration.
Option D: Determined by the project manager
Float time is not determined by the project manager's discretion but is mathematically calculated based on the network diagram and activity durations. Critical path activities will always have zero float regardless of what the project manager wants or decides.
Memory Technique
Think 'CRITICAL = ZERO WIGGLE ROOM' - critical path activities are so important that there's zero time to wiggle or delay them
Reference Hint
Look up 'Critical Path Method' or 'Project Scheduling' in construction management references, typically found in project management chapters
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