Critical Path Method (CPM)

Correct Answer: Activities that must start earlier than their late start dates to meet project deadlines

In CPM (Critical Path Method) calculations, negative float is a mathematical indication that an activity cannot meet its required completion date based on the current schedule constraints. Negative float occurs when an activity must start earlier than its late start date to meet project deadlines. This is a clear sign of schedule problems that need to be addressed. The other answers describe various project scheduling challenges but none actually relate to the concept of negative float: - Resource requirements do not themselves create negative float - Extended durations due to constraints simply affect the overall schedule duration - Schedule compression and fast-tracking are techniques to address schedule issues, but they are not related to the concept of negative float Negative float is specifically a mathematical condition where the required completion date of an activity cannot be met given the current schedule network logic and constraints.

Correct Answer: Near-critical path

A near-critical path is the technically accurate term used in Critical Path Method (CPM) for paths that run parallel to the critical path and have minimal float or slack time. A near-critical path has a duration close to that of the critical path, making it important to monitor as small delays could cause it to become the new critical path. The other answers are incorrect because: - 'Secondary critical path with total float under 5 days' is too specific and not a standard CPM term - 'Sub-critical path with minimal slack time' uses non-standard terminology - 'Peripheral network path with low float values' is not a recognized term in CPM methodology The term 'near-critical path' is widely recognized in project management and scheduling practices, and it precisely describes paths that require close attention due to their potential impact on project completion.

Correct Answer: Latest Start Time minus Earliest Start Time

Total Float (TF) is calculated using the formula: Latest Start Time (LST) minus Earliest Start Time (EST) This formula is fundamental in Critical Path Method (CPM) calculations and represents the amount of time an activity can be delayed from its earliest start time before it affects the project completion date. The formula LST - EST gives us the total amount of slack or flexibility in scheduling an activity. This is the maximum amount of time that an activity can be delayed from its earliest start time before it delays the project. The other formulas presented are incorrect combinations of schedule parameters that would not yield the Total Float value. Adding Early Start Time or Project Duration to the calculations would produce invalid results that do not represent the actual scheduling flexibility of an activity.