International Project Management Association (IPMA) Practice Exam

What is the definition of negative float in project scheduling?

1. The time difference between planned and actual completion

2. The amount of time activities are completed ahead of schedule

3. The time by which the late start date precedes the early start date

4. The total time allocated for project completion

The correct answer is: The time by which the late start date precedes the early start date

Negative float in project scheduling refers to a situation where the latest allowable start date for a task is earlier than its earliest start date. This indicates that a project or a specific activity is behind schedule, and that there is no time available to complete the task within the planned schedule. In this context, negative float signifies urgency and the potential need for corrective actions to bring the project back on track. When a negative float is present, it signifies that the project is at risk of being delayed past its completion date, thus making the understanding of this concept crucial in project management. Recognizing negative float allows project managers to prioritize tasks, allocate resources effectively, and implement necessary adjustments to avoid further delays. The other choices do not accurately define negative float. The first choice relates to overall project performance but does not specify the relationship between late and early start dates. The second choice speaks to activities being completed early, which indicates positive float rather than negative. The fourth choice simply describes the total project duration without referencing any timing discrepancies that lead to negative float.