Which phrase best describes critical path analysis when used with PERT charts?

• A. It is used primarily for qualitative assessment.
• B. It maps causal relationships of unrelated tasks.
• C. It helps determine the longest sequence of dependent activities that dictates project duration.
• D. It is only applicable to software development.

Answer: (C)

Critical path analysis with PERT charts centers on the timing and sequencing of tasks. It identifies the longest chain of dependent activities—where each task must finish before the next can start. That chain sets the minimum time required to complete the project, because any delay on those critical tasks will push the finish date back. It also highlights which tasks have slack and which run without any, guiding where to focus resources to keep the schedule intact. This approach is quantitative and broadly applicable to many kinds of projects, not just software development. Therefore, describing it as determining the longest sequence of dependent activities that dictates project duration best captures how CP/PERT works.