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Guide to PERT Estimating

PERT Estimating is a crucial tool for determining accurate project schedules and resource allocation. PERT, or Project Evaluation and Review Technique, takes uncertainty into account and provides a range of possible task durations rather than a single, fixed timeline.

Importance: It helps in the identification of minimum time needed to complete a project, and the critical path or tasks that directly affect the project timeline. This helps in better planning, managing risks and efficient resource allocation.

Working: PERT uses 3 time estimates for each project activity: Optimistic (O), Pessimistic (P), and Most Likely (M). The estimated time for each task is calculated using the formula: (O + 4M + P) / 6.

Answering PERT Questions in Exam: To excel in exam questions related to PERT, keep the following points in mind:

- Understand the basic PERT concept, formula and its application
- Practice questions to reinforce your understanding and speed
- When interpreting a PERT chart, focus on the critical path
- Familiarize yourself with common time and resource allocation scenarios
- Work on estimation accuracy rather than precision

Remember each activity’s duration is estimated separately and independent of other tasks, and the calculated time is an estimate, not a precise value.

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PERT Estimating practice test

The Program Evaluation and Review Technique (PERT) is a statistical tool used in project management to represent tasks or activities and their relationships. A PERT estimate is calculated as (Optimistic + (4 X Most Likely) + Pessimistic) / 6. This technique is useful when activities do not follow the normal distribution and where impressionistic estimates are risky.

Time: 5 minutes   Questions: 5

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  • Earn 15 PDUs needed for your CAPM certification
  • 8521 Superior-grade Certified Associate in Project Management practice questions.
  • Accelerated Mastery: Deep dive into critical topics to fast-track your mastery.
  • Unlock Effortless CAPM preparation: 5 full exams.
  • 100% Satisfaction Guaranteed: Full refund with no questions if unsatisfied.
  • Bonus: If you upgrade now you get upgraded access to all courses
  • Risk-Free Decision: Start with a 7-day free trial - get premium features at no cost!