CAPM Practice Question: Project Management Fundamentals and Core Concepts
Which THREE of the following are types of dependencies that can exist between project activities?
⚠ Common exam trap
PMI often tests the distinction between dependency types by including 'resource dependencies' as a distractor, which is not a PMBOK-recognized dependency type but a common misconception from resource-leveling discussions.
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
✓
Mandatory dependencies
Mandatory dependencies are legally or contractually required or inherent in the nature of the work. For example, in a construction project, you must complete the foundation before erecting the walls. These are often referred to as 'hard logic' and cannot be changed without altering the project scope or approach.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✗
Resource dependencies
Why it's wrong here
Resource dependencies are not a recognized dependency type in the PMBOK Guide. They refer to constraints from resource availability but are not a formal dependency classification.
- ✓
Mandatory dependencies
Why this is correct
Mandatory dependencies are legally or contractually required or inherent in the nature of the work. They are also known as hard logic and are one of the three correct types.
- ✗
Internal dependencies
Why it's wrong here
Internal dependencies are a recognized dependency type in the PMBOK Guide, but they are not part of the correct set for this question. The correct set is B, D, E (mandatory, external, discretionary).
- ✓
External dependencies
Why this is correct
External dependencies involve a relationship between project activities and factors outside the project. They are one of the three correct types.
- ✓
Discretionary dependencies
Why this is correct
Discretionary dependencies are based on best practices or preferences, also known as soft logic. They are one of the three correct types.
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