In project network analysis, which of the following statements about the Critical Path Method (CPM) is true?
- AThe critical path has the least total duration
- BThe critical path has the maximum amount of float
- CThe critical path is always the longest path in the network
- DAny delay on the critical path will cause a delay in the entire projectCorrect
Solution
Concept
Properties of the critical path
Step-by-step solution
1. The critical path is the longest path; any delay on it delays the project.
Explanation
Delay on the critical path extends the whole project.
Why the other options are wrong
The critical path has zero float and the longest duration, so A and B are wrong; C uses "always" as a trap (D is the unconditional truth).
Shortcut
Critical = zero float.
Correct answer: D) Any delay on the critical path will cause a delay in the entire project