HKSM
Gantt chart
A time-scaled schedule chart where activities are listed on the vertical axis, dates appear on the horizontal axis, and each activity is shown as a horizontal bar positioned by its planned start and finish dates.
Key Points
- Tasks run down the y-axis; calendar time runs across the x-axis.
- Horizontal bars visualize each task's duration and timing.
- Overlaps, sequencing, and milestones are easy to see at a glance.
- Great for communicating timelines; use network diagrams to analyze critical path.
Example
A project manager plans a mobile app release. The Gantt chart lists Design, Development, Testing, and Launch on the left, with dates across the top. Design spans May 1–10, Development May 11–June 7, Testing June 10–20, and Launch June 25. Bars show overlaps (buffer between Development and Testing) and a milestone on the Launch date.
PMP Example Question
Which tool displays activities on the vertical axis and calendar dates on the horizontal axis, using horizontal bars to represent each activity's start and finish?
- Gantt chart
- Milestone chart
- Kanban board
- PDM network diagram
Correct Answer: A — Gantt chart
Explanation: A Gantt chart is a time-scaled bar chart that maps each activity's duration between its planned start and finish dates.
