Direct answer

Calculate earned-value schedule variance and SPI, then interpret results in value units without presenting schedule variance as days or weeks.

What to know

  • Use consistent units for all inputs.
  • Validate zero and negative values before dividing.
  • State the forecasting assumption before using an output for a decision.
  • Reconcile calculator results with the approved project data date and baseline.

How to apply it

Enter current, controlled project data. Review the formula and model limits before communicating the result, and retain the input values with the analysis.

Formula

SV = EV − PV; SPI = EV ÷ PV.

Worked example

If EV is 75,000 and PV is 100,000, SV is −25,000 value units and SPI is 0.75. These results do not directly state how many days the project is late.

Common mistakes

  • Mixing currencies or data dates.
  • Reporting excessive decimal precision.
  • Treating one formula as a guaranteed forecast.

Exam and practice connection

PMP questions can test both calculation and interpretation. Read the wording and identify the requested metric before calculating.