In a project network, an activity on the critical path has zero float and is delayed by three days. If no corrective action is taken, what is the expected effect?

Correct answer: The project completion date moves three days later. An activity on the critical path has zero float, so a delay pushes the project completion date later by the same amount unless corrective action is taken.

• A non-critical activity automatically absorbs the delay. Non-critical activities do not automatically absorb a delay on the critical path.
• Project duration remains unchanged because float is shared. Float belongs to non-critical activities; the critical path has none to share.
• Only the project budget changes, not its completion date. A delay to a critical activity affects the completion date, not only the budget.