Are you aspiring to enhance your project management skills and boost your career prospects? The PRINCE2 Practitioner certification might be the stepping stone you need. PRINCE2 (Projects IN Controlled Environments) is a globally recognized project management methodology widely used in various industries.
In this blog post, we’ll provide you with a valuable resource to help you prepare for the PRINCE2 Practitioner certification exam. We’ve gathered a selection of free practice questions that will enable you to test your knowledge, identify areas of improvement, and gain the confidence needed to ace the exam.
But before we delve into the questions, let’s take a brief look at how becoming a certified practitioner can benefit your career.
Why Pursue the PRINCE2 Practitioner Certification?
Becoming a certified PRINCE2 Practitioner can significantly enhance your project management skills and demonstrate your expertise to employers. Here are some key reasons why you should consider obtaining this certification:
- Globally Recognized: The PRINCE2 certification is recognized and respected worldwide, giving you a competitive advantage in the job market.
- Improved Career Prospects: PRINCE2 Practitioners are highly sought after by organizations looking to ensure successful project delivery.
- Enhanced Project Management Skills: PRINCE2 provides a robust framework and methodology that equips you with valuable project management skills applicable across various industries.
- Better Project Outcomes: With PRINCE2 knowledge, you can effectively manage projects, minimize risks, and deliver projects on time and within budget.
Now, let’s move on to the free PRINCE2 Practitioner practice questions:
Domain 1 – Learn to Apply the PRINCE2 principles in context
Domain 1 of the PRINCE2 Practitioner certification focuses on understanding and applying the seven PRINCE2 principles to various project scenarios. The principles are the foundation of the PRINCE2 methodology and serve as guiding rules for effective project management. In this domain, candidates learn how to tailor and adapt these principles to suit the specific needs of a project and ensure successful project outcomes.
Now, let’s move on to the six MCQ (Multiple Choice Questions) with answers and explanations for Domain 1:
Question 1: Which PRINCE2 principle emphasizes the need to continuously justify the viability of the project and to reevaluate its alignment with the business objectives throughout the project lifecycle?
a) Continued Business Justification
b) Learn from Experience
c) Manage by Stages
d) Focus on Products
Answer: a) Continued Business Justification
Explanation:
The Continued Business Justification principle requires project managers to ensure that the project remains viable and aligned with the organization’s business objectives throughout its lifecycle. This means regularly reviewing the project’s business case and verifying that the benefits justify the resources invested in the project. If, at any point, the project ceases to be viable, it should be stopped.
Question 2: According to the PRINCE2 principles, what should the Project Manager do if a project is at risk of deviating from its objectives?
a) Ignore the deviation and proceed with the current plan
b) Inform the Project Board about the deviation and seek their decision
c) Consult the team members for solutions and proceed based on their input
d) Stop the project immediately to avoid any further deviation
Answer: b) Inform the Project Board about the deviation and seek their decision
Explanation:
The PRINCE2 principle of Manage by Exception advocates that the Project Manager should establish tolerances for each project objective (time, cost, scope, quality, risk, and benefits). If a deviation occurs that threatens to exceed these tolerances, the Project Manager must report the deviation to the Project Board. The Board will then decide on the appropriate course of action to address the deviation and provide further direction.
Question 3: Which PRINCE2 principle suggests that roles and responsibilities in the project should be clearly defined and communicated to all team members?
a) Manage by Stages
b) Defined Roles and Responsibilities
c) Focus on Products
d) Tailor to Suit the Project Environment
Answer: b) Defined Roles and Responsibilities
Explanation:
The PRINCE2 principle of Defined Roles and Responsibilities stresses the importance of defining and communicating clear roles and responsibilities within the project. This ensures that everyone involved in the project understands their specific contributions and accountabilities, leading to better coordination and effective decision-making.
Question 4: During the initiation stage of a project, the Project Manager identifies potential risks and creates a risk management plan. Which PRINCE2 principle does this exemplify?
a) Manage by Stages
b) Focus on Products
c) Learn from Experience
d) Manage by Exception
Answer: c) Learn from Experience
Explanation:
The PRINCE2 principle of Learn from Experience encourages project teams to draw on past project experiences, both positive and negative, to improve project performance. By identifying potential risks during the initiation stage and creating a risk management plan based on past experiences, the project team can proactively address and mitigate risks, increasing the likelihood of project success.
Question 5: According to the PRINCE2 principles, which aspect is critical to ensure that the project remains viable and relevant to the organization’s goals and objectives?
a) Defining a detailed Project Plan
b) Conducting regular project team meetings
c) Establishing strong communication channels
d) Continuously reviewing the Business Case
Answer: d) Continuously reviewing the Business Case
Explanation:
The Continued Business Justification principle in PRINCE2 emphasizes the importance of regularly reviewing and validating the Business Case throughout the project’s lifecycle. This ensures that the project’s objectives are aligned with the organization’s goals and that the project remains justified and relevant.
Question 6: A project manager is facing a situation where the project scope is at risk of being expanded beyond the original agreement. What is the best course of action according to the PRINCE2 principles?
a) Inform the Project Board about the situation and propose a scope change
b) Reallocate resources from other projects to accommodate the expanded scope
c) Continue with the expanded scope to deliver additional benefits to the organization
d) Follow the predefined plan without considering the scope expansion
Answer: a) Inform the Project Board about the situation and propose a scope change
Explanation:
The PRINCE2 principle of Manage by Exception requires the Project Manager to inform the Project Board whenever a situation occurs that is outside the agreed-upon tolerances. In this case, the expansion of the project scope falls outside the original agreement, so the Project Manager should report this to the Project Board and seek their approval for a scope change. The Board will decide on the appropriate course of action to handle the situation effectively.
Domain 2 – Learn to Apply and tailor relevant aspects of PRINCE2 themes in context
Domain 2 of the PRINCE2 Practitioner certification focuses on understanding and applying the PRINCE2 themes in different project contexts. Themes are fundamental project management aspects that must be addressed throughout the project’s lifecycle. This domain aims to test your knowledge of how to tailor these themes appropriately to meet the specific requirements of individual projects. It also assesses your ability to apply PRINCE2 principles effectively in various scenarios and situations.
Topic: Apply the PRINCE2 requirements for the business case theme
Question 1: Which of the following is a purpose of the Business Case theme in PRINCE2?
a) To define the roles and responsibilities of the project team
b) To monitor and control project progress
c) To assess the feasibility and viability of the project
d) To identify and manage project risks
Answer: c) To assess the feasibility and viability of the project
Explanation: The Business Case theme in PRINCE2 is primarily focused on assessing the feasibility and viability of the project. It helps in evaluating whether the project is worth the investment and aligns with the organization’s objectives.
Question 2: During which stage of the project should the Business Case be reviewed and updated?
a) Initiating a Project
b) Managing Product Delivery
c) Closing a Project
d) Directing a Project
Answer: a) Initiating a Project
Explanation: The Business Case should be reviewed and updated during the Initiating a Project process. This ensures that the project’s viability is reassessed before committing significant resources.
Question 3: What happens if the Business Case is found to be no longer viable during the project’s execution?
a) The project continues as planned to achieve the objectives.
b) The project is immediately closed to prevent further losses.
c) The project is put on hold until a new Business Case is created.
d) The Project Manager seeks approval from the Project Board to change the Business Case.
Answer: d) The Project Manager seeks approval from the Project Board to change the Business Case.
Explanation: If the Business Case is found to be no longer viable during the project’s execution, the Project Manager must seek approval from the Project Board to change the Business Case or consider terminating the project.
Question 4: Who is responsible for documenting the Business Case in PRINCE2?
a) Business Analyst
b) Project Manager
c) Project Board
d) Project Support
Answer: c) Project Board
Explanation: In PRINCE2, the Project Board is responsible for documenting and maintaining the Business Case. They ensure that the project remains justifiable throughout its lifecycle.
Question 5: What is the primary purpose of the Benefit Review Plan in relation to the Business Case?
a) To outline the risks associated with the project
b) To identify potential changes to the project scope
c) To define how and when the project benefits will be measured
d) To assess the performance of the project team
Answer: c) To define how and when the project benefits will be measured
Explanation: The Benefit Review Plan outlines how and when the project benefits will be measured, ensuring that the project delivers the expected outcomes and aligns with the organization’s goals.
Question 6: Which PRINCE2 role is responsible for maintaining and updating the Business Case throughout the project’s lifecycle?
a) Project Manager
b) Project Board
c) Business Sponsor
d) Team Manager
Answer: c) Business Sponsor
Explanation: The Business Sponsor is responsible for maintaining and updating the Business Case throughout the project’s lifecycle. They ensure that the project’s benefits remain valid and support the business objectives.
Topic: Apply the PRINCE2 requirements for applying the plans theme
Question 1: (Scenario) You are the Project Manager for a software development project, and you have completed the initiation stage. The Project Board has approved the initiation stage and authorized the project to proceed. What should be your next step concerning the Plans Theme?
a) Develop the Stage Plans for the first stage of the project.
b) Create the Project Plan and submit it for approval to the Project Board.
c) Begin executing the project activities as per the initial plan.
d) Conduct a Quality Review to ensure the project meets the required standards.
Answer: b) Create the Project Plan and submit it for approval to the Project Board.
Explanation: After the initiation stage is approved, the next step is to create the Project Plan. The Project Plan outlines the approach, management, and control of the entire project. Once the Project Plan is developed, it should be submitted to the Project Board for approval before proceeding with the project.
Question 2: (Scenario) During the project’s execution, the team identifies potential risks that were not addressed adequately in the initial plan. What should the Project Manager do to address these risks?
a) Proceed with the project as planned and deal with the risks if they materialize.
b) Update the Risk Register and revise the relevant plans to address the identified risks.
c) Escalate the risks to the Project Board and await their decision on how to proceed.
d) Communicate the risks to the stakeholders and seek their input on risk mitigation.
Answer: b) Update the Risk Register and revise the relevant plans to address the identified risks.
Explanation: When new risks are identified during project execution, the Project Manager should update the Risk Register to document them. Subsequently, the relevant plans should be revised to address these risks and ensure appropriate risk mitigation actions are taken.
Question 3: (Situation) You are the Project Manager of a construction project with multiple stages. The project is currently in the middle of its second stage. During a Stage Boundary Review, it becomes evident that the project’s progress is not in line with the planned schedule, and additional resources will be required to meet the remaining objectives. What should you do next?
a) Hold an emergency meeting with the project team to identify the root cause of the delays.
b) Request approval for changes to the current Stage Plan to include the required additional resources.
c) Continue with the existing Stage Plan and address the resource constraints in the next stage.
d) Escalate the situation to the Project Board and seek their guidance on the best course of action.
Answer: b) Request approval for changes to the current Stage Plan to include the required additional resources.
Explanation: When the project’s progress deviates significantly from the planned schedule and additional resources are needed, the Project Manager should request approval for changes to the current Stage Plan. This ensures that the necessary adjustments are made to complete the current stage successfully.
Question 4: What is the purpose of the Product Description in the context of the Plans Theme?
a) To outline the budget and cost allocation for the project.
b) To provide a detailed breakdown of project activities and tasks.
c) To describe the quality criteria and acceptance criteria for deliverables.
d) To identify potential risks and issues that may impact the project.
Answer: c) To describe the quality criteria and acceptance criteria for deliverables.
Explanation: The Product Description is a part of the Plans Theme and provides detailed information about the project’s deliverables. It outlines the quality criteria that the deliverables must meet and the acceptance criteria that indicate when the deliverables are considered complete and acceptable.
Question 5: Which plan focuses on defining how the project’s benefits will be realized and measured?
a) Project Plan
b) Business Case
c) Benefits Management Approach
d) Communications Management Strategy
Answer: c) Benefits Management Approach
Explanation: The Benefits Management Approach plan outlines how the project’s benefits will be identified, realized, and measured. It ensures that the project’s outcomes align with the expected benefits and that those benefits are achieved and sustained.
Topic: Apply the PRINCE2 requirements for controlling progress
Question 1: (Scenario) You are the project manager of a software development project, and your team is currently working on the coding phase. During a regular project checkpoint, you notice that the actual progress is not matching the planned progress. What should you do first?
a) Update the project plan to reflect the actual progress.
b) Conduct a root cause analysis to identify the reasons for the deviation.
c) Escalate the issue to the Project Board for further guidance.
d) Implement additional resources to speed up the development process.
Answer: b) Conduct a root cause analysis to identify the reasons for the deviation.
Explanation: When there is a deviation between the actual progress and the planned progress, it’s essential to understand the underlying reasons. Conducting a root cause analysis will help you identify the factors contributing to the deviation. Once the root causes are identified, you can develop appropriate corrective actions to get the project back on track.
Question 2: (Situation) Your project is facing a significant delay due to unforeseen external factors. The Project Board has asked you to propose a revised schedule to complete the project within the original budget. What PRINCE2 process would you undertake to address this situation?
a) Managing a Stage Boundary
b) Controlling a Stage
c) Managing Product Delivery
d) Directing a Project
Answer: b) Controlling a Stage
Explanation: In PRINCE2, the process of “Controlling a Stage” is responsible for managing the project on a day-to-day basis. During this process, you monitor progress, manage risks and issues, and take corrective actions. Given the significant delay, you would use this process to propose a revised schedule to complete the project within the original budget.
Question 3: (Scenario) Your project team has encountered a technical problem that requires external expertise to resolve. The project progress is at risk of being delayed. What should you do next?
a) Consult the Project Board for approval to hire external experts.
b) Document the technical problem and inform the team about the delay.
c) Seek advice from the Team Manager on how to resolve the technical problem.
d) Include the technical problem in the next Highlight Report to the Project Board.
Answer: a) Consult the Project Board for approval to hire external experts.
Explanation: When facing a technical problem that may impact the project progress, it’s crucial to involve the Project Board. Seeking their approval to hire external experts can help resolve the issue efficiently and avoid further delays.
Question 4: (Situation) Your project is in the execution phase, and you notice that some deliverables are not meeting the quality criteria defined in the Project Product Description. What should you do next?
a) Update the Project Product Description to match the deliverables’ quality.
b) Report the issue in the next Checkpoint Report to the Project Board.
c) Conduct a quality review to assess the extent of non-conformance.
d) Delegate the responsibility to the Team Manager to address the issue.
Answer: c) Conduct a quality review to assess the extent of non-conformance.
Explanation: To address the quality issue, it’s essential to conduct a quality review to assess the extent of non-conformance. This review will help identify the root causes of the problem and enable you to take appropriate corrective actions to ensure that future deliverables meet the required quality criteria.
Question 5: (Scenario) Your project is progressing well, and you have successfully completed the first stage. However, you receive a request from a key stakeholder to add a new feature to the project scope. What should be your immediate response?
a) Politely decline the request, as the project scope cannot be changed.
b) Include the new feature in the current stage’s plan and proceed with implementation.
c) Analyze the impact of the change on the project’s objectives and inform the Project Board.
d) Request the stakeholder to submit the change request in writing for future consideration.
Answer: c) Analyze the impact of the change on the project’s objectives and inform the Project Board.
Explanation: Changes to the project scope should be carefully evaluated to understand their impact on project objectives, schedule, and budget. In this situation, the project manager should analyze the impact of the new feature and inform the Project Board, as they are responsible for approving changes to the project.
Question 6: (Situation) Your project is running behind schedule, and you have identified a potential risk that could further delay the project if not addressed promptly. What should you do first?
a) Record the risk in the Risk Register and assign it to a Risk Owner.
b) Develop a detailed risk response plan to mitigate the risk.
c) Escalate the risk to the Project Board for immediate action.
d) Include the risk in the next stage’s Work Package for the team to address.
Answer: a) Record the risk in the Risk Register and assign it to a Risk Owner.
Explanation: When a potential risk is identified, the first step is to record it in the Risk Register. Assigning a Risk Owner is important to ensure that someone is responsible for monitoring the risk and implementing appropriate responses. Once recorded, the Risk Owner can assess the risk and work on developing a risk response plan if needed. The risk can be escalated to the Project Board if it requires their attention or approval.
Domain 3 – Apply (and tailor) relevant aspects of PRINCE2 processes in context
This domain focuses on the practical application of PRINCE2 processes in specific project contexts. It requires a deep understanding of the PRINCE2 methodology and the ability to adapt and tailor its processes to suit the unique requirements of each project. Project managers must make informed decisions about which aspects of PRINCE2 to apply, modify, or omit based on the project’s size, complexity, and organizational environment.
Topic: Carry out the initiating a project process activities
Question 1: Which document is created during the Initiating a Project process to provide a baseline for the project and is used throughout the project’s lifecycle?
a) Business Case
b) Project Brief
c) Project Initiation Documentation (PID)
d) Risk Management Strategy
Answer: c) Project Initiation Documentation (PID)
Explanation: The Project Initiation Documentation (PID) is a key document created during the Initiating a Project process. It serves as a baseline for the project and contains essential information such as project objectives, scope, approach, organization, and key controls. The PID is used throughout the project’s lifecycle to ensure that everyone involved in the project is working toward a common understanding of its goals and objectives.
Question 2: Who is responsible for authorizing the project and ensuring that it aligns with the organization’s strategic objectives during the Initiating a Project process?
a) Project Manager
b) Project Board
c) Project Sponsor
d) Senior Supplier
Answer: c) Project Sponsor
Explanation: The Project Sponsor is responsible for authorizing the project and ensuring that it aligns with the organization’s strategic objectives. The Project Sponsor plays a critical role in providing the necessary resources and support to the Project Manager and the project team to carry out the project successfully.
Question 3: During the Initiating a Project process, which activity involves identifying all individuals, groups, or organizations that may affect or be affected by the project?
a) Creating a Work Package
b) Identifying Project Controls
c) Defining Project Tolerances
d) Identifying Stakeholders
Answer: d) Identifying Stakeholders
Explanation: Identifying stakeholders is an essential activity during the Initiating a Project process. It involves identifying all individuals, groups, or organizations that may affect or be affected by the project. Understanding stakeholders’ interests, concerns, and expectations is crucial for effective project management.
Question 4: In the Initiating a Project process, what is the purpose of defining project tolerances?
a) To determine the required resources for the project
b) To establish the authority of the Project Manager
c) To define the level of acceptable deviation for project objectives
d) To assess potential risks and issues in the project
Answer: c) To define the level of acceptable deviation for project objectives
Explanation: Defining project tolerances is about setting limits or boundaries for key project objectives, such as time, cost, quality, scope, and benefits. These tolerances define the acceptable deviation from the baseline plan within which the Project Manager has the authority to make decisions without escalating to higher levels of management.
Question 5: Which of the following is a valid objective of the Risk Management Strategy in the Initiating a Project process?
a) To outline the steps for closing the project
b) To identify and assess potential project risks
c) To define how to manage issues during the project
d) To describe how to manage project quality
Answer: b) To identify and assess potential project risks
Explanation: The Risk Management Strategy is a part of the Project Initiation Documentation (PID) and is created during the Initiating a Project process. Its objective is to identify and assess potential project risks and define how these risks will be managed throughout the project lifecycle.
Question 6: What is the primary output of the Initiating a Project process?
a) Project Brief
b) Business Case
c) Project Initiation Documentation (PID)
d) End Project Report
Answer: c) Project Initiation Documentation (PID)
Explanation: The primary output of the Initiating a Project process is the Project Initiation Documentation (PID). The PID provides a comprehensive overview of the project and acts as a reference point for all stakeholders. It ensures that everyone involved in the project has a common understanding of its objectives, scope, approach, and key controls.
Topic: Carry out managing a stage boundary process activities
Question 1: (Scenario) You are the project manager of a complex software development project. The current stage is coming to an end, and you are about to initiate the “Managing a Stage Boundary” process. During the process, what is the key activity you need to perform?
a) Reviewing the benefits achieved in the current stage.
b) Creating a detailed plan for the next stage.
c) Seeking approval to proceed with the next stage.
d) Identifying new risks and issues.
Answer:
c) Seeking approval to proceed with the next stage.
Explanation:
During the “Managing a Stage Boundary” process, one of the key activities is seeking approval from the Project Board to proceed with the next stage. This ensures that the current stage’s objectives have been met, and the project remains on track before committing to the next phase.
Question 2: (Scenario) You are the project manager of a construction project that just completed the second stage. However, you have identified some deviations from the planned objectives. What should you do during the “Managing a Stage Boundary” process?
a) Update the Project Initiation Documentation.
b) Notify the team members about the deviations.
c) Raise an Exception Report to the Project Board.
d) Continue with the next stage without making any changes.
Answer:
c) Raise an Exception Report to the Project Board.
Explanation:
If deviations from the planned objectives are identified during the “Managing a Stage Boundary” process, the project manager must raise an Exception Report to the Project Board. This report highlights the issues, suggests corrective actions, and seeks further guidance from the Project Board on how to proceed.
Question 3: (Scenario) You are the project manager, and your project has completed the current stage. What should be your primary focus during the “Managing a Stage Boundary” process?
a) Preparing a detailed plan for the next stage.
b) Conducting a risk assessment for the entire project.
c) Identifying potential changes to the project scope.
d) Ensuring that all planned products were delivered in the current stage.
Answer:
a) Preparing a detailed plan for the next stage.
Explanation:
During the “Managing a Stage Boundary” process, the project manager should focus on preparing a detailed plan for the next stage. This plan will outline the objectives, deliverables, resources, and key activities for the upcoming stage.
Question 4: (Scenario) You are managing a large infrastructure project, and the current stage is nearing completion. What is the purpose of the “Managing a Stage Boundary” process in this situation?
a) To request additional funding for the next stage.
b) To evaluate the performance of the project team.
c) To assess the benefits realized in the current stage.
d) To review and decide on the continuation of the project.
Answer:
d) To review and decide on the continuation of the project.
Explanation:
The primary purpose of the “Managing a Stage Boundary” process is to review the current stage’s performance and decide whether to continue with the next stage or take corrective actions. It ensures that the project remains viable and aligned with its objectives.
Question 5: (Scenario) Your project is entering the “Managing a Stage Boundary” process. What role should be responsible for overseeing and approving this process?
a) Project Manager
b) Project Support
c) Project Board
d) Team Manager
Answer:
c) Project Board
Explanation:
The Project Board is responsible for overseeing and approving the “Managing a Stage Boundary” process. They provide crucial decisions and authorize the continuation of the project into the next stage based on the information and recommendations provided by the project manager.
Question 6: (Scenario) Your project has completed the current stage, and you are about to perform the “Managing a Stage Boundary” process. What document should be updated during this process to reflect the completed work and the actual performance?
a) Business Case
b) Project Initiation Documentation
c) Product Breakdown Structure (PBS)
d) End Stage Report
Answer:
d) End Stage Report
Explanation:
During the “Managing a Stage Boundary” process, the End Stage Report should be updated to reflect the completed work and actual performance of the current stage. This report provides essential information to the Project Board for decision-making on project continuation and potential adjustments.
Final Words
In conclusion, the journey towards obtaining the PRINCE2 Practitioner certification can be both rewarding and transformative for your project management career. In this blog, we have explored the significance of PRINCE2 as a globally recognized project management methodology, and we’ve highlighted the benefits of becoming a certified PRINCE2 Practitioner.
We provided you with a valuable resource by offering a set of free practice questions to help you prepare for the PRINCE2 Practitioner certification exam. These questions are designed to test your knowledge, challenge your understanding, and simulate real-life scenarios you may encounter as a project manager.
By engaging with these practice questions, you can evaluate your readiness for the exam, identify areas for improvement, and gain the confidence needed to excel in your certification journey. Additionally, the scenario-based questions offered insight into the practical application of PRINCE2 concepts, enabling you to grasp the methodology’s real-world relevance.
Remember that the PRINCE2 Practitioner certification not only enhances your project management skills but also demonstrates your expertise to potential employers, giving you a competitive edge in the job market. Embrace the opportunity to learn and grow as a project manager, and open doors to exciting career prospects by achieving this globally recognized certification.
We hope that the free PRINCE2 Practitioner practice questions provided in this blog have proven to be a valuable resource on your certification journey. Remember to combine these questions with further study, exam preparation materials, and hands-on experience to maximize your chances of success.
