Critical Path Method (CPM) Made Simple: A Complete Guide

Want to learn everything about the Critical Path Method (CPM)? This video breaks down key terminologies, teaches you how to draw a network diagram, and walks you through two popular methods to calculate the critical path—the Plus-Minus-One Method and the Zero-Day Method while addressing the confusion for day counts using both methods. If you’re preparing for the PMP exam or managing complex projects, mastering CPM will help you optimize scheduling and meet deadlines with confidence. Why Watch This Video? CPM is an essential project scheduling technique that helps managers identify task dependencies, optimize timelines, and manage float efficiently. Whether you’re studying for the PMP exam or managing real-world projects, this step-by-step guide will ensure you fully understand the critical path concept. In This Video: - Key Terminologies: Precedence Diagramming Method (PDM), dependencies, float, lead, lag, and time-boxing - Drawing a Network Diagram: Step-by-step guide using PDM to simplify the process - Understanding the Critical Path: Identifying the longest sequence of dependent activities - Float Calculation: Difference between Total Float and Free Float - Two Critical Path Calculation Methods (Plus-Minus-One Method, Zero-Day Method) - Forward and Backward Pass Calculations: Determining early start, early finish, late start, and late finish Chapters 0:00 Intro 0:36 Term: Network Diagram 1:05 Term: Four Dependencies 3:05 Term: Critical Path 4:00 Term: Float 5:22 Term: Lead and Lag