Network Analysis MCQ with answer and solution

Concept

Early Finish (EF) time is the earliest possible time by which an activity can be completed. It is obtained by adding the activity duration to its early start time.

Formula

EF = ES + t

Step-by-step solution

1. Understand the definition of Early Start (ES) and Early Finish (EF). 2. ES is the earliest time an activity can begin. 3. Add the activity duration (t) to ES to find when it can finish at the earliest. 4. Therefore, Early Finish = Early Start + Duration, which is the sum of both. Answer: (A) Sum

Explanation

Early start time is when an activity begins as early as possible. Adding the activity duration gives the earliest time the activity can end. Therefore, early finish time is the sum of early start time and duration.

Why the other options are wrong

B: Difference gives the early start time if subtracted from early finish, not early finish itself. C: Product of time values has no physical meaning in network scheduling. D: Ratio of time values has no physical meaning in project network analysis.

Shortcut

Remember: Finish = Start + Duration.

Common mistake

Students sometimes confuse Late Start calculation (LF - duration) with Early Finish calculation.