Quick Answer
The answer is the network diagram, specifically used with the critical path method (CPM), because it visually maps all task dependencies and highlights the critical path—the longest sequence of activities with zero float. When a task on this path is delayed, the network diagram allows you to trace the impact through dependent tasks and confirm that the project completion date shifts by the exact amount of the delay, in this case three days. On the CompTIA Project+ PK0-005 exam, this question tests your understanding that any delay on the critical path directly extends the project end date, since there is no schedule flexibility. A common trap is confusing the network diagram with a Gantt chart or a work breakdown structure; remember that only the network diagram explicitly shows task relationships and float. For a quick memory tip, think “critical path = zero float, so delay equals delay.”
This PK0-005 practice question tests your understanding of tools and documentation. Read the scenario carefully and evaluate each option against the stated constraints before committing to an answer. After answering, compare your reasoning against the explanation and wrong-answer breakdown below. Once you have made your selection, read the full explanation to reinforce the concept and understand why each distractor is designed to mislead on exam day.
A project manager notices that a task on the critical path is delayed by 3 days. Which tool should the project manager use to determine the impact on the project completion date?
Gantt chart
Why wrong: Gantt chart shows timeline but does not directly calculate impact on completion date.
Network diagram
Network diagram shows dependencies and critical path; impact can be recalculated using forward/backward pass.
Risk register
Why wrong: Risk register tracks risks, not schedule calculations.
Work breakdown structure
Why wrong: WBS defines scope, not schedule.
Answer choices
Answer the question above first, then reveal the full breakdown to understand why each option is right or wrong.
Correct answer & explanation
Network diagram
The network diagram (specifically the critical path method, CPM) is the correct tool because it visually maps task dependencies and identifies the critical path. A 3-day delay on a critical path task directly extends the project completion date by 3 days, as there is no float. The project manager can use the network diagram to trace the impact through dependent tasks and confirm the new end date.
Key principle: Answer the scenario, not the keyword: identify the specific constraint before choosing the most familiar-sounding option.
Answer analysis
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
Gantt chart
Why it's wrong here
Gantt chart shows timeline but does not directly calculate impact on completion date.
Network diagram
Why this is correct
Network diagram shows dependencies and critical path; impact can be recalculated using forward/backward pass.
Related concept
Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer.
Risk register
Why it's wrong here
Risk register tracks risks, not schedule calculations.
Work breakdown structure
Why it's wrong here
WBS defines scope, not schedule.
Common exam traps
The trap here is that candidates confuse a Gantt chart's visual timeline with the ability to analyze critical path impacts, but only a network diagram (or CPM chart) provides the dependency and float data needed to quantify the delay's effect on the project completion date.
Trap categories for this question
Command / output trap
Gantt chart shows timeline but does not directly calculate impact on completion date.
Detailed technical explanation
Under the hood, the network diagram uses forward and backward pass calculations to determine early start, early finish, late start, late finish, and total float for each task. A task on the critical path has zero total float, meaning any delay directly shifts the project's finish date. In real-world scenarios, a project manager might use a network diagram to perform a 'what-if' analysis by adjusting the delayed task's duration and recalculating the critical path to see if a new critical path emerges.
Key takeaway
Answer the scenario, not the keyword: identify the specific constraint before choosing the most familiar-sounding option.
Real-world example
A small business has 20 workstations on the 192.168.1.0/24 network and one public IP from its ISP. The router uses PAT (NAT overload) so all 20 devices share one public address using different source ports. NAT questions test whether you understand the four address terms and which direction each translation applies.
What to study next
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FAQ
Tools and Documentation — This question tests Tools and Documentation — Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer..
The correct answer is: Network diagram — The network diagram (specifically the critical path method, CPM) is the correct tool because it visually maps task dependencies and identifies the critical path. A 3-day delay on a critical path task directly extends the project completion date by 3 days, as there is no float. The project manager can use the network diagram to trace the impact through dependent tasks and confirm the new end date.
Identify which exam domain this question belongs to, review the core concept, then practise similar questions from the same domain.
Read the scenario before looking for a memorised answer.
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Last reviewed: Jun 24, 2026
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.
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