PMP · Question #578
A project charter has been approved and the project manager has been assigned to the project. The project manager is currently working with the project team to subdivide the project work packages…
The correct answer is C. Decomposition. The project manager is performing decomposition, which is the process of breaking down project work packages into smaller, more manageable components.
Question
Options
- AResource leveling
- BWork breakdown structure (WBS)
- CDecomposition
- DNetwork diagram
How the community answered
(30 responses)- B3% (1)
- C93% (28)
- D3% (1)
Why each option
The project manager is performing decomposition, which is the process of breaking down project work packages into smaller, more manageable components.
Resource leveling is a technique to optimize resource allocation over time, not to subdivide work packages.
A Work Breakdown Structure (WBS) is the output or the hierarchical decomposition of project work, not the action of subdividing itself; decomposition is the process used to create the WBS.
Decomposition is the specific technique used to subdivide project work packages into smaller components, such as planning packages and work activities, as part of creating the Work Breakdown Structure (WBS). This process helps in detailed planning and estimation.
A network diagram visually represents the logical relationships among project activities, not the subdivision of work packages.
Concept tested: Work Breakdown Structure (WBS) decomposition
Topics
Community Discussion
5
Ola B.Jun 5, 2026C is correct. Subdividing work packages is literally the definition of decomposition, and if you spin up a quick sandbox project in something like MS Project you can see it in action. B is the output, not the action itself.
Viktor S.Jun 16, 2026C is correct, and the key word is "subdivide." Decomposition is the specific technique of breaking work packages into smaller, more manageable components, which is exactly what the stem describes. B is the trap here because people see "work packages" and jump straight to WBS, but the WBS is the output, not the activity of subdividing. The PMBOK is precise about this distinction, so learn the difference or you will trip over it on the exam.
Prof. SaraJun 19, 2026Good catch on decomposition as the technique, but to lock it in for the exam remember that the WBS is the output, work packages are the lowest level of that output, and decomposition is the verb - think D for Decompose equals Divide.
Prof. SaraJun 24, 2026Confirmed C on exam last week. The keyword "subdivide" is the giveaway, because decomposition is the technique used to break work packages into smaller, more manageable components, whereas the WBS in option B is the output of that process.
Ola B.Jun 26, 2026Agreed on C, and if you want to nail this down for good, spin up a quick project in Azure DevOps, create a work package, and subdivide it yourself so the decomposition concept sticks.