PK0-005 Tools and Documentation Practice Question
A project manager is using earned value management. The project has a schedule variance (SV) of -$5,000. What does this indicate?
⚠ Common exam trap
Project+ often tests the confusion between schedule variance (SV) and cost variance (CV), where candidates mistakenly associate a negative SV with being over budget instead of behind schedule.
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
✓
The project is behind schedule.
A negative schedule variance (SV = EV - PV) indicates that the earned value (EV) is less than the planned value (PV), meaning the project is behind schedule. In this case, SV = -$5,000 confirms the project has accomplished less work than planned at the measurement date.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✗
The project is ahead of schedule.
Why it's wrong here
Positive SV would indicate ahead of schedule.
- ✓
The project is behind schedule.
Why this is correct
Negative SV means behind schedule.
- ✗
The project is under budget.
Why it's wrong here
SV does not measure cost; cost variance (CV) would.
- ✗
The project is over budget.
Why it's wrong here
Over budget is indicated by negative CV.
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