American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) Practice Exam

What is the primary purpose of a Gantt Chart?

1. To analyze costs associated with a project

2. To focus on the sequence of tasks necessary for project completion

3. To illustrate funding sources

4. To identify team members' roles

The correct answer is: To focus on the sequence of tasks necessary for project completion

A Gantt Chart is primarily used to visually represent a project schedule, highlighting the timeline and sequence of tasks necessary for project completion. This tool allows project managers and stakeholders to see what tasks need to be done, how long each task will take, and when tasks are scheduled to start and finish. By focusing on the timeline and sequence, a Gantt Chart helps ensure that tasks are organized in an efficient manner to track progress and manage dependencies between tasks. While other options mention important aspects of project management, such as analyzing costs, illustrating funding sources, and identifying roles, they do not capture the essence of what a Gantt Chart specifically provides. The primary utility of this chart lies in its ability to showcase the task sequence and timeline, which is essential for effective project management and ensuring that all parts of the project are aligned with the overall schedule. This makes it a key tool for visualizing project progress and making necessary adjustments over time.