Chapter 6: Project Planning

Planning is not a one-time event; it is a continuous process of refinement. In the 2026 PMP exam, planning spans the spectrum from detailed predictive baselines to iterative agile backlogs.

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The Planning Core

Strategic planning is about creating a "Integrated Project Management Plan" that balances the competing needs of scope, time, cost, and quality.

6.1 Scope Planning

Defining the 'What'. WBS, Requirements Traceability, and Agile Backlogs.

Define Work →

6.2 Schedule Planning

Defining the 'When'. Critical Path, Float, and Sprint Cadence.

Set Timeline →

6.3 Cost Planning

Defining the 'How Much'. Budgeting, Contingency, and Value Engineering.

Allocate Budget →

6.4 Resource Planning

Defining the 'Who'. Physical vs. Team resources and availability.

Find People →

Knowledge Check

Challenge your ability to integrate the different planning baselines.

Test Strategy →

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2026 Mindset: The Integrated Plan

A project falls apart when plans exist in silos. Integration means:

• Scope changes trigger Schedule updates.
• Cost limits force Scope prioritization.
• Resource availability dictates Schedule feasibility.

💡 Study Recommendation

On the exam, focus on Progressive Elaboration. You don't know everything on Day 1. Planning should grow more detailed as you learn more about the project environment.