Near Critical Path
Scheduling Terms
Reviewed by forProject Technology - updated Sep 2026
Quick definition: A Near Critical Path is a chain of tasks that isn't on the Critical Path today but is the most likely to become critical if conditions change.
The Near Critical Path refers to one or more chains of tasks that, while not currently on the Critical Path, are likely to become critical as things change during project execution. In some environments, Near Critical Paths are further categorized as the Secondary Critical Path, Tertiary Critical Path, and so on.
What this means for you
Schedulers watch Near Critical Paths because they show where a new Critical Path is likely to appear. They also matter when trying to shorten the schedule, since compressing the Critical Path alone often just makes the next path in line critical.
Also known as
Secondary Critical Path, Tertiary Critical Path
Used in
Critical Path Analysis
See also
FAQ
Is the Near Critical Path the same as the Critical Path?
No. The Critical Path sets the project finish date. A Near Critical Path isn't controlling the finish today, but it's the chain of tasks most likely to become critical if conditions change.
Why does the Near Critical Path matter if it isn't driving the finish date yet?
Because small schedule changes can shift it into becoming the new Critical Path, so it's an early warning sign worth monitoring.
Definition maintained by forProject Technology.
© 2026 forProject Technology, Inc.
© 2026 forProject Technology, Inc.
