The phrase early finish date (also known by the abbreviation EF) refers, on the critical path method, to the earliest possible point at which the as yet to be completed elements of a schedule activity (or, depending on the particular context, the entire project as a whole) may potentially be completed . The early finish date is arrived at through usage of the schedule network logic, as well as accurately factoring in the data date as well as any known or predictable scheduling constraints. While the early finish date can be creatd and/or established at an early point in the project planning process, the early finish date will likely change multiple times throughout the life cycle of the project, particularly as the project advances into different stages, delays may potentially occur, and changes may be made to the overriding project management plan as a result of these potential delays (or, in ideal cases, on the possibility of being ahead of schedule).

This term is defined in the 3rd and the 4th edition of the PMBOK.

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