Backward Pass
Scheduling Terms
Reviewed by forProject Technology - updated Sep 2026
Quick definition: The Backward Pass is the Critical Path Method calculation that works backward from the project end date to find the latest each task can start and finish without delaying the project.
The Backward Pass starts at the last task and works back through the schedule, one link at a time. The results are each task's Late Start Date and Late Finish Date.
What this means for you
Comparing the late dates with the early dates from the Forward Pass shows how much each task can slip without delaying the project (its Total Float). That's what identifies the Critical Path.
Also known as
N/A
Used in
Critical Path Method schedule calculation; Late Start Date and Late Finish Date determination; Total Float and Critical Path identification
See also
FAQ
What does the Backward Pass actually calculate?
The latest each task can start and finish (its Late Start Date and Late Finish Date) without delaying the project.
Why does the Backward Pass matter if the Forward Pass already produced a finish date?
The Forward Pass shows only the earliest each task can happen. The Backward Pass adds the latest, and the gap between the two shows how much each task can slip (its Total Float).
Definition maintained by forProject Technology.
© 2026 forProject Technology, Inc.
© 2026 forProject Technology, Inc.
