Which pairing correctly matches a PMI PMBOK process group with its primary purpose?

• A. Initiating: Authorize a project or phase
• B. Planning: Acquire and perform the work
• C. Executing: Formally complete the project or phase
• D. Closing: Track, review, and regulate progress

Answer: (A)

Initiating is about giving the project the green light by authorizing it to start. That’s the essential purpose: to formally authorize the project or a phase so work can begin, typically through the project charter and stakeholder identification. The option that pairs Initiating with authorizing a project or phase captures this first-step authorization perfectly.

Planning, on the other hand, is about defining what will be done and how to do it—setting scope, objectives, and the plan to achieve them. It isn’t about authorizing work. Executing involves carrying out the plan to deliver the project’s outputs, not about formal closure. Closing is focused on finalizing activities and obtaining formal acceptance to conclude the project or phase. Tracking progress and adjusting course happens in Monitoring and Controlling, not Closing.