Fundamentals of CPM and PERT for Project Scheduling

Successfully delivering complex projects on time and within budget requires a solid grasp of scheduling theory. This text-based course introduces you to the core principles of Critical Path Method (CPM) and Program Evaluation and Review Technique (PERT). You will develop the skills to construct project network diagrams, calculate activity schedules, and manage project uncertainty. By learning how to identify bottlenecks and optimize resources, you will be prepared to tackle scheduling challenges in both academic exams and real-world engineering projects. What you'll learn: - Understand the foundational concepts of project networks, activities, and events. - Construct network diagrams and perform forward and backward pass calculations. - Identify the critical path and calculate total, free, and independent float. - Apply PERT three-estimate methods to determine project completion probabilities. - Analyze time-cost trade-offs through project crashing and resource leveling. - Compare traditional network scheduling with modern digital project workflows. This course begins with essential terminology and network rules before moving into step-by-step mathematical calculations and optimization techniques. It is designed for beginners, engineering students, and project coordinators. No prior scheduling experience is required. Start reading today to master the science of project scheduling.