PK0-005 Project Life Cycle Practice Question
A project manager is performing quantitative risk analysis. Which THREE of the following techniques are commonly used? (Select three.)
⚠ Common exam trap
PK0-005 often tests the confusion between qualitative and quantitative risk techniques — candidates frequently select the probability and impact matrix (qualitative) or SWOT (strategic) when the question asks specifically for quantitative methods.
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
✓
Monte Carlo simulation
Monte Carlo simulation (B) is a core quantitative risk analysis technique that runs thousands of iterations of a model using probability distributions for cost or schedule variables to produce a probabilistic range of outcomes. Sensitivity analysis (C) is also quantitative: it examines how variation in individual risk variables (e.g., via a tornado diagram) affects the overall project objective, isolating the most influential risks. Expected monetary value (D) is quantitative because it multiplies each risk's probability by its monetary impact and sums the results to derive a contingency reserve figure. By contrast, SWOT analysis (A) is a qualitative strategic/risk identification tool, and the probability and impact matrix (E) is a qualitative technique for prioritizing risks by rating likelihood and impact rather than computing numeric values.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✗
SWOT analysis
Why it's wrong here
SWOT analysis examines internal strengths and weaknesses against external opportunities and threats, producing strategic context rather than numerical risk estimates. It is tempting because it is a recognised risk-identification technique, and it would be correct when framing strategy or identifying risks, but it yields no quantified probability or impact data.
- ✓
Monte Carlo simulation
Why this is correct
Monte Carlo simulation runs repeated random sampling across probability distributions for cost and schedule variables, producing a range of possible outcomes with confidence levels. This iterative numerical modelling satisfies the quantitative risk analysis requirement to assess combined risk exposure.
- ✓
Sensitivity analysis
Why this is correct
Sensitivity analysis examines how variation in individual risk assumptions affects project outcomes, typically displayed as a tornado diagram. It quantifies which uncertain variables most influence objectives, satisfying the numerical modelling requirement of quantitative risk analysis.
- ✓
Expected monetary value (EMV)
Why this is correct
Expected monetary value multiplies each risk's probability by its financial impact to produce a weighted monetary figure. This quantifies contingency reserves and supports objective comparison of risks, satisfying the numerical assessment requirement of quantitative risk analysis.
- ✗
Probability and impact matrix
Why it's wrong here
The probability and impact matrix is a qualitative risk analysis tool, plotting likelihood against consequence to rank risks. It is tempting because it also uses probability and impact data, but it assigns ordinal ratings rather than the numerical probability distributions, EMV or Monte Carlo simulation that quantitative analysis requires.
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Written and reviewed by Johnson Ajibi, MSc IT Security
Senior Network & Security Engineer · founder of Courseiva
Last reviewed September 2026 · checked against the official CompTIA exam blueprint
This PK0-005 practice question is part of Courseiva's free CompTIA certification practice question bank. Courseiva provides original exam-style practice questions with explanations, topic-based practice, mock exams, readiness tracking, and study analytics to help learners prepare for the PK0-005 exam.