easyMultiple Choice
PK0-005 Practice Question: A project manager is assigned to a new project
A project manager is assigned to a new project. The project charter has been approved. Which of the following is the NEXT step?
⚠ Common exam trap
CompTIA often tests the misconception that detailed planning activities (like risk assessment or WBS creation) can begin immediately after the charter is approved, but the correct sequence requires the project management plan to be developed first as the overarching guide.
Answer choices
Why each option matters
Answer the question above first, then reveal the full breakdown to understand why each option is right or wrong.
Correct answer & explanation
✓
Develop the project management plan
After the project charter is approved, the next step is to develop the project management plan. This plan defines how the project is executed, monitored, controlled, and closed, and it integrates all subsidiary plans (e.g., scope, schedule, cost). The PMBOK Guide and the PK0-005 exam follow the sequence: charter approval → develop project management plan → then detailed planning activities like risk assessment, budget determination, and WBS creation.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✓
Develop the project management plan
Why this is correct
Once the charter is approved, the project manager integrates all subsidiary baselines and plans into the project management plan, which directs execution and control. This satisfies the NEXT-step requirement because planning follows authorisation, before work is performed or baselines are formally approved.
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Perform risk assessment
Why it's wrong here
Risk assessment follows scope definition, since risks are identified against the WBS and activities, not the charter alone. It is tempting because the charter authorises the project and risk work feels prudent early, but risk identification is properly performed during planning after the scope baseline exists.
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Determine the project budget
Why it's wrong here
Budget determination depends on cost estimates derived from the WBS, activities and resources, none of which exist yet. It is tempting because the charter contains a high-level budget figure, but that figure is a preliminary authorisation, not a cost baseline; detailed budgeting belongs later in planning.
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Create the work breakdown structure
Why it's wrong here
Creating the work breakdown structure decomposes scope, which requires the scope baseline to exist first. The charter only authorises the project; requirements must still be gathered and scope defined. A WBS is the right next step once scope has been baselined, making it a plausible distractor for those skipping the planning sequence.
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