CAPM Predictive Lifecycle Practice Question
In a predictive (waterfall) project, the project phases are completed sequentially. If the design phase is delayed by two weeks, what is the likely impact on the project?
⚠ Common exam trap
Candidates often think that delays can be recovered by overlapping phases, but in a strict waterfall, overlapping is not allowed and would require a change to a different methodology.
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 duration is extended by exactly two weeks.
In a predictive (waterfall) lifecycle, project phases are completed sequentially, and each phase depends on the completion of the previous one. Therefore, a two-week delay in the design phase will push back the start of all subsequent phases (e.g., development, testing) by two weeks, resulting in the project duration being extended by exactly two weeks. Option A is correct. Option B is incorrect because overlapping phases (fast-tracking) is generally not allowed in a strict waterfall approach without changing methodology. Option C is incorrect because later phases cannot start on time if they depend on design outputs. Option D is incorrect because design is typically on the critical path in a sequential project, so any delay directly impacts the project end 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 duration is extended by exactly two weeks.
Why this is correct
In a sequential waterfall, a delay in a phase extends the overall project by that amount unless compressed.
- ✗
The delay can be recovered by overlapping subsequent phases.
Why it's wrong here
Overlapping (fast tracking) might reduce impact, but the likely impact is extension; the question asks 'likely impact'.
- ✗
Only the design phase is affected; later phases can start on time.
Why it's wrong here
Design outputs are needed for later phases, so they will be delayed.
- ✗
No impact because design is not on the critical path.
Why it's wrong here
In predictive typically all phases are on the critical path unless there is slack; but often design is critical.
Go deeper
Related to this question
About these practice questions
Courseiva writes every CAPM question from scratch — 487 in total, each with an explanation and a wrong-answer breakdown. None are copied from real exams or dumps. Learn why practice questions differ from exam dumps →
JA
Written by Johnson Ajibi, MSc IT Security
Senior Network & Security Engineer · founder of Courseiva
This CAPM practice question is part of Courseiva's free PMI 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 CAPM exam.