What is the total float of the critical path?

Question

Options

• ACan be any number
• BZero or positive
• CZero or negative
• DDepends on the calendar

• A
  4% (2)
• B
  11% (6)
• C
  79% (42)
• D
  6% (3)

Explanation

Total float on the critical path is always zero or negative (C) because the critical path represents the longest sequence of activities with no scheduling slack - zero float means any delay causes a project delay. When a project has a mandatory finish date earlier than the calculated completion date (a constrained or "late" schedule), critical path activities acquire negative float, meaning the project is already behind before work begins.

Why the others are wrong:

• A (Can be any number): Positive float means an activity has flexibility and is not on the critical path - it contradicts the definition.
• B (Zero or positive): Zero is correct, but positive float is impossible on the critical path; positive float defines a non-critical activity.
• D (Depends on the calendar): Calendars affect duration calculations, but the total float value relative to the critical path definition is not calendar-dependent.

Memory tip: Think "Critical = Zero Cushion." If there's any positive wiggle room (float > 0), the task isn't truly critical. Negative float is the danger zone - it means you're already overdue on the critical path before you start.

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