HKSM

A task that must occur before another, dependent task in the project schedule.

Key Points

• Defines the logical order of tasks and establishes dependencies between activities.
• Can be linked with different relationship types (FS, SS, FF, SF) along with leads or lags.
• An activity may have multiple predecessors, a single predecessor, or none at project start.
• Predecessor and successor relationships influence the critical path and schedule flexibility.

Example

In a building project, "Complete foundation" must finish before "Start framing" can begin. "Complete foundation" is the predecessor activity; "Start framing" is its successor.

PMP Example Question

Which statement best describes a predecessor activity?

1. A task that starts only after its successor finishes.
2. A task that must occur before a dependent task in the schedule.
3. A task that is not linked to any other activity.
4. A task that represents the longest path through the schedule network.

Correct Answer: B — a task that must occur before a dependent task

Explanation: A predecessor activity is one that logically comes before another activity that depends on it.