CAPM Practice Question: Project Management Fundamentals and Core Concepts
Which TWO of the following are true regarding a project's life cycle?
⚠ Common exam trap
Candidates often confuse the project life cycle with the product life cycle, assuming they are the same or that the project life cycle defines the product life cycle, when in fact the product life cycle is the broader umbrella.
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
✓
Hybrid life cycles combine predictive and adaptive approaches.
Hybrid life cycles intentionally blend predictive (plan-driven) and adaptive (iterative) approaches to leverage the strengths of both. For example, a project might use a predictive phase for requirements gathering and high-level design, then switch to adaptive sprints for development and testing. This allows flexibility in execution while maintaining upfront planning where needed.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✓
Hybrid life cycles combine predictive and adaptive approaches.
Why this is correct
Hybrid life cycles blend elements of both predictive and adaptive to suit project needs.
- ✗
Adaptive life cycles are only used for software projects.
Why it's wrong here
Adaptive life cycles are used in various industries, not just software.
- ✓
Predictive life cycles are also called waterfall.
Why this is correct
Predictive life cycles are indeed often referred to as waterfall, where requirements are defined upfront.
- ✗
All projects have the same number of phases.
Why it's wrong here
The number of phases depends on the project's size, complexity, and industry.
- ✗
The project life cycle defines the product life cycle.
Why it's wrong here
The project life cycle is part of the larger product life cycle, not the other way around.
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