hardMultiple Choice
PK0-005 Practice Question: A project manager is using a tool that plots…
A project manager is using a tool that plots risks based on their probability of occurrence and potential impact. What is this tool?
⚠ Common exam trap
Many exam-takers confuse the risk matrix (a visual plotting tool) with the risk register (a comprehensive list), but the question explicitly states 'plots risks,' which only the matrix does.
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
✓
Risk matrix
A risk matrix is a tool that plots risks on a grid based on their probability of occurrence and potential impact, allowing the project manager to prioritize risks visually. This aligns directly with the question's description of plotting risks by these two dimensions. The risk matrix is a standard tool in project risk management for qualitative risk analysis.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✗
Decision tree
Why it's wrong here
A decision tree models expected monetary value across sequential choices and chance events, so it does not plot risks on probability and impact axes. It is tempting because it also supports risk analysis quantitatively, and would be correct when selecting between alternative courses of action under uncertainty.
- ✓
Risk matrix
Why this is correct
A risk matrix plots each risk on a grid according to its probability of occurrence and potential impact, typically using colour-coded cells to indicate severity. This lets the project manager prioritise which risks warrant response planning.
- ✗
Risk register
Why it's wrong here
A risk register is a document listing risks with attributes such as owner, category and response; it records risks but does not itself plot them on probability and impact axes. It is tempting because it is central to risk management, and would be correct as the repository capturing identified risks and their responses.
- ✗
SWOT analysis
Why it's wrong here
SWOT analysis examines internal strengths and weaknesses against external opportunities and threats, producing a strategic overview rather than plotting individual risks by probability and impact. It is tempting because it addresses threats, and would be correct when assessing organisational strategic position before project initiation.
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