Critical Path

Critical Path Method (CPM)

The longest sequence of dependent tasks that sets the shortest possible project duration. Any delay on the critical path delays the whole project.

When you'd see it: Project scheduling and Gantt charts, where the critical path is often highlighted. 'Is this on the critical path?' decides what gets attention.

Why it matters: The critical path tells you which tasks actually control the deadline, so you know where slack exists and where it does not. Tasks off the critical path can slip without moving the end date.

Common mistakes: Speeding up tasks that are not on the critical path. That spends money without moving the finish date.

Related Gantt Chart, Waterfall