Critical Path Method (CPM) identifies the sequence of tasks that determines the minimum possible project duration. Any delay to a task on the critical path delays the project end date by the same amount. Tasks not on the critical path have “float” — they can be delayed by the amount of their float without affecting the end date. For a typical Utah residential project, the critical path often runs through: permit approval, foundation with cold-weather cure time, window delivery and installation, framing, MEP rough-in inspection, insulation, drywall, and finishes. Understanding the critical path allows the project manager to focus schedule management attention on the tasks that matter most to the completion date — not all tasks equally.