PRINCE2® Foundation

Sample
Paper 2
Answers and Rationales

Official Training Materials

Sample Paper 2: Answers and Rationales
Q A Syllabus Ref Rationale
1 D 3.7.3a A. Incorrect. A highlight report is a time-driven control,
produced at a predefined frequency. Ref 12.2.2
B. Incorrect. An exception report is an event-driven control,
produced when a tolerance is forecast to be exceeded. Ref
12.2.2
C. Incorrect. A daily log is a useful tool for recording actions
when reviewing progress, but it is not defined as a PRINCE2
control. Ref 12.2.2, A.7.1
D. Correct. A team manager prepares a checkpoint report
for the project manager at a predefined frequency.
Therefore, checkpoint reports are a time-driven control.
Ref 12.2.2
2 C 3.2.1b A. Incorrect. A change control approach is used to identify
how, and by whom, the project’s products will be controlled
and protected. Ref A.3.1
B. Incorrect. An end project report is used during project
closure to review how the project performed against the
version of the project initiation documentation (PID) used to
authorize it. Ref A.8.1
C. Correct. A communication management approach
contains a description of the means and frequency of
communication to parties both internal and external to
the project. Ref A.5.1
D. Incorrect. A project brief is used to provide a full and firm
foundation for the initiation of the project and is created in
the 'starting up a project' process. It is not used in the 'closing
a project' process. Ref A.19.1
3 B 4.2d A. Incorrect. The purpose of the 'directing a project' process is
to enable the project board to be accountable for the
project’s success by making key decisions and exercising
overall control while delegating day-to-day management of
the project to the project manager. Ref 15.1
B. Correct. An objective of the 'controlling a stage'
process is to ensure attention is focused on delivery of
the stage’s products. Any movement away from the
direction and products agreed at the start of the stage is
monitored to avoid uncontrolled change and loss of
focus. The 'controlling a stage' process describes the
work of the project manager in handling the day-to-day
management of the stage. Ref 17.2, 17.3
C. Incorrect. The purpose of the 'managing a stage boundary’
process is to enable the project manager to provide the
project board with sufficient information to be able to
confirm continued business justification and acceptability of
the risks. Ref 19.1
D. Incorrect. The purpose of the 'closing a project' process is
to provide a fixed point at which acceptance for the project
product is confirmed, and to recognize that objectives set out
in the original project initiation documentation (PID) have
been achieved. Ref 20.1

PRINCE2® Foundation | Sample Paper 2 Answers and Rationales | Copyright© PeopleCert International Ltd. 3
 Q A Syllabus Ref Rationale Q A Syllabus Ref Rationale
4 D 2.1a D. Correct. 7 A 3.3.3b A. Correct. Quality assurance provides assurance to
(1) PRINCE2 requires that, for all projects, the business corporate, programme management or customer on the
justification is recorded and approved. Ref 3.1 project's compliance with relevant corporate,
(4) Even compulsory projects should be supported by a programme management or customer standards and
business justification that demonstrates value for policies. Project assurance provides assurance to the
money. Ref 3.1 project's stakeholders that the project is being conducted
A, B, C. Incorrect. properly. Ref tab 8.1
(2) The business justification is the responsibility of the B. Incorrect. Quality assurance is the responsibility of the
executive, not the project manager. Ref 6.2.1 programme or corporate organization. Ref tab 8.1
(3) A project should be stopped if the justification disappears. C. Incorrect. Quality assurance is independent of the project.
However even though the justification should remain valid, it Project assurance is independent of the project manager, but
may still change. It is important for the evolving justification not the project. Ref tab 8.1
to be valid. Ref 3.1 D. Incorrect. Project assurance is the responsibility of the
5 C 2.1c A. Incorrect. Application of the 'manage by stages' principle project board. Quality assurance is the responsibility of
ensures that a PRINCE2 project is planned, monitored and corporate, programme management or customer. Ref tab 8.1
controlled on a stage-by-stage basis. Ref 3.4 8 C 3.6.3 A. Incorrect. This procedure assesses and controls
B. Incorrect. Application of the 'focus on products' principle uncertainty, not change. Ref 10.4
ensures that a PRINCE2 project focuses on the definition and B. Incorrect. When there is an exception situation, this must
delivery of products, in particular their quality requirements. be raised to the next level of management. This is part of the
This principle does not represent the primary stakeholders. progress theme rather than a defined procedure. Ref 12.2.3
Ref 3.6 C. Correct. This procedure identifies and controls changes
C. Correct. Application of the 'defined roles and to baselined products. The PRINCE2 recommended issue
responsibilities' principle ensures that a PRINCE2 project and change control procedure can be used, or an
has defined and agreed roles and responsibilities within equivalent procedure. Ref 11.4.1-4
an organization structure that engages the business, user D. Incorrect. This activity defines and implements methods to
and supplier stakeholder interests. Ref 3.3 check that products will meet their quality criteria. Ref 8.1.1
D. Incorrect. Application of the 'learn from experience' 9 D 2.1e A. Incorrect. Project scope must be defined, but it is the
principle ensures that PRINCE2 project teams learn from tolerances that define limits of delegated authority. Ref 3.5
previous experience: lessons are sought, recorded and acted B. Incorrect. Project cost must be defined, but it is the
upon throughout the life of the project. Ref 3.2 tolerances that define limits of delegated authority. Ref 3.5
6 A 4.1g A. Correct. The purpose of the 'closing a project' process C. Incorrect. Timescales must be defined, but it is the
is to provide a fixed point at which acceptance of the tolerances that define limits of delegated authority. Ref 3.5
project product is confirmed, and to recognize that D. Correct. A PRINCE2 project has defined tolerances for
objectives set out in the original project initiation each project objective to establish limits of delegated
documentation have been achieved, or that the project authority. Ref 3.5
has nothing more to contribute. Ref 20.1 10 A 3.6.2 A. Correct.
B. Incorrect. There is not an end stage assessment at the end (1) To be following PRINCE2, a project must, as a
of the final stage. A purpose of the 'closing a project' process minimum, assess whether identified issues might have a
is to recognize that objectives set out in the original project material impact on the business justification of the
initiation documentation have been achieved. Ref 20.1, Ref project (PRINCE2’s continued business justification
12.2.2.4 principle). Ref 11.2
C. Incorrect. The 'controlling a stage' process describes the (2) To be following PRINCE2, a project must, as a
work of the project manager in handling the day-to-day minimum, ensure that project issues are captured,
management of the stage. The achievement of a project's examined, managed and reviewed throughout the
objectives is measured and confirmed during the 'closing a project lifecycle. Ref 11.2
project' process. Ref 17.3, 20.1 B, C, D. Incorrect.
D. Incorrect. The 'managing product delivery' process is used (3) As part of the change theme, verification of the actual
to control delivery of the project's products at work package status of products can be considered, however this is not a
level and interfaces with the 'controlling a stage' process. A minimum requirement. Ref 11.2, 11.3.3
purpose of the 'closing a project' process is to recognize that (4) Unless the anticipated level of change on a project is low, it
objectives set out in the original project initiation is advisable for a budget to be set up to pay for changes.
documentation have been achieved. Ref 20.1, 18.2 However, this is not a minimum requirement for applying the
change theme. Ref 11.2, 11.3.6

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 Q A Syllabus Ref Rationale Q A Syllabus Ref Rationale
11 D 4.1d A. Incorrect. To agree, perform and deliver project work is a 15 A 3.4.3a A. Correct. 'Identifying activities and dependencies' is a
purpose of the 'managing product delivery' process. Ref 18.1 step in PRINCE2's recommended approach to planning.
B. Incorrect. To draft a plan for the next stage is a purpose of The step identifies the activities required to deliver a
the 'managing a stage boundary' process. Ref 19.1 planned product. Ref fig 9.2, 9.3.1.3
C. Incorrect. The stage plan for the next stage is created in the B. Incorrect. Describing the means of communication in the
'managing a stage boundary' process and approved in the project is done as part of creating the communication
'directing a project' process. During the 'authorize a stage or management approach. Ref 7.2.2
exception plan activity', tolerances will be set for the stage C. Incorrect. Implementing responses for risks is part of the
plan being approved. Ref 19.1, 15.4.3 recommended risk management process. Ref 10.3.2
D. Correct. The purpose of the 'controlling a stage' D. Incorrect. The ‘baselining project deliverables’ activity takes
process is to assign work, monitor it, deal with issues, place whenever a product is either ready for review or has
report progress and take corrective action to ensure that been approved. Ref 11.1
the stage remains within tolerance. Ref 17.1 16 D 2.1b A. Incorrect. A PRINCE2 project has defined tolerances for
12 A 2.1g A. Correct. If PRINCE2 is not tailored, it is unlikely that each project objective to establish limits of delegated
the project management effort and approach would be authority. This is an advantage of applying the 'manage by
appropriate for the needs of the project. Tailoring exception' principle. Ref 3.5
ensures the project management method used is B. Incorrect. A PRINCE2 project has defined and agreed roles
appropriate to the project’s environment. Ref 3.7 and responsibilities within an organization structure that
B. Incorrect. Tailoring is done according to the project's risk. It engages the business, user and supplier stakeholder
does not avoid risk. Ref 3.7 interests. This is an advantage of applying the 'defined roles
C. Incorrect. Tailoring does not avoid the need for training. It and responsibilities' principle. Ref 3.3
does ensure that the project management method and C. Incorrect. A PRINCE2 project has defined tolerances for
controls are appropriate to the project's environment. each project objective to establish limits of delegated
Training may still be necessary. Ref 3.7 authority. This is an advantage of applying the 'manage by
D. Incorrect. Tailoring will align the project method to the exception' principle. Ref 3.5
business processes that may govern and support the project, D. Correct. As the project progresses the project should
such as human resources, finance and procurement. It does continue to learn. Lessons should be included in relevant
not avoid the need for these processes. Ref 3.7 reports and reviews. The goal is to seek opportunities to
13 A 3.2.3h A. Correct. The team manager’s primary responsibility is implement improvements during the life of the project.
to ensure production of those products allocated by the Ref 3.2
project manager. PRINCE2 uses work packages to allocate 17 B 3.2.3b A. Incorrect. Project tolerance levels are set by corporate or
work to team managers. Ref 7.2.1.8 programme management. The project board sets stage
B. Incorrect. Reviewing the highlight report for the previous tolerance levels. Ref 12.2.1
reporting period is a responsibility of the project manager in B. Correct. The executive (who represents the business
the 'controlling a stage' process. Ref 7.2.1.7, 17.4.5 interest) is appointed to ensure that the project is
C. Incorrect. Reviewing the tailoring approach and its focused on achieving and delivering a product that will
implications for project controls is a responsibility of the achieve the forecast benefits and will deliver value for
project manager in the 'initiating a project' process. Ref money. Ref 7.2.1.2
7.2.1.7, 16.4.6 C. Incorrect. Confirming the project delivers the required
D. Incorrect. Capturing, examining and escalating issues and functionality is part of the responsibilities/focus of the senior
risks, and taking corrective actions are responsibilities of the user who is appointed by the executive. Ref 7.2.1.3, C.3.1
project manager in the 'controlling a stage' process. Ref D. Incorrect. Checking the required quality levels are achieved
7.2.1.7, 17.4 by the project's products is part of the responsibilities/focus
14 A 4.3d A. Correct. For complex projects with a large initiation of the senior supplier who is appointed by the executive. Ref
stage, the 'controlling a stage' process can be used to 7.2.1.4
control the activities. Ref 17.3
B. Incorrect. The 'controlling a stage' process is used by the
project manager to manage the day-to-day activities of a
stage, not a programme. Ref 17.3
C. Incorrect. Support activities are business as usual.
'Controlling a stage' is a project process. Ref 17.3
D. Incorrect. Creating an exception plan is an activity within
the 'managing a stage boundary' process. Ref 19.4.5

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 Q A Syllabus Ref Rationale Q A Syllabus Ref Rationale
18 A 1.1d A. Correct. As one of the minimum requirements, a 22 C 3.5.2 A. Incorrect. As part of the 'implement' step in the risk
PRINCE2 project must demonstrate that the project has management procedure, risk actionees should be assigned to
processes that satisfy the purpose and objectives of the carry out risk responses. However, this is not a minimum
PRINCE2 processes. Ref 1.3 requirement for applying the risk theme. Ref 10.2, 10.4.4
B. Incorrect. A project organization is always temporary. For B. Incorrect. Risks will be raised to the project board if they
this reason having a permanent structure is not a minimum exceed tolerance however, not all risks are raised to the
requirement. Ref 2.1 project board. However, this is not a minimum requirement
C. Incorrect. A project is a means to change an existing for applying the progress theme. Ref 12.2
business as usual. However, PRINCE2 does not define how C. Correct. As a minimum, the project should maintain
this change is going to take place. Technology to improve the some form of risk register to record identified risks and
business as usual will be an output for the project, and decisions relating to their analysis, management and
PRINCE2 will be tailored to manage the delivery of that review. Ref 10.2
output. Ref 2.1 D. Incorrect. A risk budget can be established as part of
D. Incorrect. Application of all of the PRINCE2 principles is managing risk, however this is not a minimum requirement
mandatory. Ref 1.3 for applying the risk theme. Ref 10.2, 10.3.7
19 D 3.5.3e A. Incorrect. The scale or probable effect of the risk is 23 C 3.7.3b A. Incorrect. An exception report is created by the project
referred to as its impact. Ref 10.4.2.1 manager in the 'controlling a stage' process when issues and
B. Incorrect. The scale or probable effect of the risk is risks are escalated to the project board. Ref 17.4.7
referred to as its impact. Ref 10.4.2.1 B. Incorrect. An exception plan is produced by the project
C. Incorrect. A probable timeframe within which the risk may manager in the 'managing a stage boundary' process. Ref
occur is a definition of the risk proximity. Ref 10.4.2.1 19.4.5
D. Correct. Probability measures the likelihood of the risk C. Correct. If a work package is forecast to exceed
occurring. Ref 10.4.2.1 tolerances agreed in a work package, the team manager
20 C 3.5.4 A. Incorrect. Project support is not responsible for allocating should inform the project manager by raising an issue.
the risk budget- they provide administrative duties to the The project manager will then advise on corrective
project by maintaining the risk register. Ref tab 10.1 actions required. Ref 12.2.3
B. Incorrect. Risk responses are decided by the project team D. Incorrect. A risk is an uncertain event or set of events that,
during the 'plan' step. Ref 10.4.3 should it occur, will have an effect on the achievement of
C. Correct. The risk owner manages and controls all objectives. A forecast to exceed work package tolerances is
aspects of a risk and the risk actionee implements an issue. Ref 10.1, 12.2.1
specific responses to a risk as part of the 'implement' 24 B 2.2 A. Incorrect. The executive, as a member of the project board,
step. Ref 10.4.4 has responsibility for approving any tailoring, but it is the
D. Incorrect. The risk management approach is formulated project manager who is responsible for identifying and
during the 'identify context' step. Ref 10.4.1.1 documenting the level of tailoring for the project. Ref 4.3.2
21 C 4.2c A. Incorrect. An objective of the 'directing a project' process is B. Correct. The project manager is responsible for
to ensure that there is authority to initiate the project. Ref identifying and documenting the level of tailoring for the
15.2 project. Ref 4.3.2
B. Incorrect. Preparation may begin for the next stage (which C. Incorrect. The team manager may propose to the project
triggers the 'managing a stage boundary' process), but manager any tailoring which would help them manage their
subsequent stages are planned towards the end of each work packages more effectively, but it is the project manager
stage. Ref 19.2 who is responsible for identifying and documenting the level
C. Correct. The project initiation documentation should of tailoring for the project. Ref 4.3.2
include or reference the project controls and summarize D. Incorrect. It is the project manager who is responsible for
how the project intends to tailor PRINCE2. Ref 16.2 identifying and documenting the level of tailoring for the
D. Incorrect. Authority to deliver the project is sought from project, not project support. Ref 4.3.2
the project board, not programme, corporate management
or the customer. Ref 16.3

8 PRINCE2® Foundation | Sample Paper 2 Answers and Rationales | Copyright© PeopleCert International Ltd. PRINCE2® Foundation | Sample Paper 2 Answers and Rationales | Copyright© PeopleCert International Ltd. 9
 Q A Syllabus Ref Rationale Q A Syllabus Ref Rationale
25 D 3.3.2 A. Incorrect. Where there is already an established quality 28 B 4.1c A. Incorrect. The 'managing product delivery' process
management system for projects, for example in a provides accurate progress information to the project
programme or portfolio, only the project-specific approaches manager at an agreed frequency to ensure that expectations
will need to be documented, but this is not a minimum are managed. Ref 18.2
requirement. Ref 8.3.5 B. Correct. The 'initiating a project' process establishes
B. Incorrect. Although PRINCE2 does not address quality solid foundations for the project, enabling the
assurance, and it is good practice to include it in the project’s organization to understand the work that needs to be
quality management approach, it is defining project done to deliver the project’s products before committing
assurance that is the minimum requirement. Ref 8.2, 8.3.5 to a significant spend. Ref 16.1
C. Incorrect. In considering acceptance criteria, it can be C. Incorrect. The 'controlling a stage' process monitors the
useful to select proxy measures that will be accurate and work of the stage and reports progress to the project board
reliable indicators of whether benefits will subsequently be at regular intervals defined by them. Ref 17.1
achieved, but this is not a minimum requirement. Ref 8.3.10 D. Incorrect. The 'directing a project' process is where the
D. Correct. To be following PRINCE2, a project must, as a project board will make decisions to commit resources, but it
minimum, define the project’s approach to project can only do so if provided with the appropriate information
assurance. Ref 8.2 from the 'initiating a project' process or the 'managing a stage
26 B 3.3.1a A. Incorrect. Establishing the mechanisms to judge whether a boundary' process. Ref 15.4.2
project is desirable and achievable is a purpose of the 29 A 3.7.1b A. Correct.
business case theme. Ref 6.1 (1) A highlight report is used to provide the project board
B. Correct. A purpose of the quality theme is to use the (and possibly other stakeholders) with a summary of the
lessons identified during the project to introduce more stage and project status at intervals defined by them. Ref
efficiency and effectiveness into the management of the A.11.1
project and the project's products. Ref 8.1 (2) The project board uses the highlight report to monitor
C. Incorrect. Controlling uncertainty to improve the ability of stage and project progress. Ref A.11.1
the project to succeed is a purpose of the risk theme. Ref 10.1 B, C, D. Incorrect.
D. Incorrect. Establishing mechanisms to control any (3) A highlight report is time-driven so is only produced on set
unacceptable deviation is a purpose of the progress theme. intervals. A highlight report is not used when an event occurs,
Ref 12.1 such as a new risk being identified. Ref 12.2.2.4, A.11.1
27 B 3.1.1a A. Incorrect. Establishing mechanisms for managing issues (4) An exception report is produced when a stage plan or
that may impact the baseline is a purpose of the change project plan is forecast to exceed tolerance levels set. It is
theme. Ref 11.1 prepared by the project manager in order to inform the
B. Correct. A purpose of the business case theme is to project board of the exception situation. Ref A.10.1
allow decisions to be made regarding continued project 30 B 3.6.1b A. Incorrect. The issue register holds details of all issues
investment and benefit achievement. Ref 6.1 which are to be formally managed and which will have issue
C. Incorrect. Assessing and controlling uncertain events or reports created. Ref A.12.1
situations is a purpose of the risk theme. Ref 10.1 B. Correct. The product status account should provide
D. Incorrect. Describing how products will be delivered that details of all the products of a stage, including the
are fit for purpose is a purpose of the quality theme. Ref 8.1 version numbers. Ref A.18.1
C. Incorrect. The product description defines purpose and
function of each product. Ref A.17.1
D. Incorrect. The configuration item record product holds the
version number of one specific configuration item. Ref A.6.1

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 Q A Syllabus Ref Rationale Q A Syllabus Ref Rationale
31 B 3.5.1a B. Correct. 34 B 3.5.3c A. Incorrect. A risk owner is responsible for the management,
(2) The risk theme aims to support better decision monitoring and control of all aspects of a particular risk
making through a good understanding of risks. Ref 10.1 allocated to them. Project support assists the project
(3) Management of risk should be systematic and manager in maintaining the risk register. Ref tab 10.1, 10.4.4
proactive, and is implemented by the risk management B. Correct. A risk owner is responsible for the
approach which defines activities that should be management, monitoring and control of all aspects of a
implemented to control risks on a project. Ref 10.1 particular risk allocated to them. Ref 10.4.4
A, C, D. Incorrect. C. Incorrect. A risk owner is responsible for the management,
(1) The purpose of the risk theme is to manage project risks, monitoring and control of all aspects of a particular risk
not at the corporate, programme management or customer allocated to them. The risk actionee is an individual assigned
level. Ref 10.1 to carry out a risk response action, taking direction from the
(4) It is the change theme that identifies, assesses and risk owner. Ref 10.4.4
controls any potential and approved changes to the baseline. D. Incorrect. A risk owner is responsible for the management,
Ref 11.1 monitoring and control of all aspects of a particular risk
32 A 3.7.2 A. Correct. To be following PRINCE2, a project must, as a allocated to them. Project assurance reviews risk
minimum, define its approach to controlling progress in management practices to check that they are in line with the
the project initiation documentation. The 'manage by risk management approach. Ref 10.4.4, tab 10.1
exception' principle is particularly important when 35 D 3.2.3f A. Incorrect. It is a responsibility of project assurance to
controlling progress. Ref 12.2 ensure an acceptable solution is being developed. Ref 7.2.1.5
B. Incorrect. Only the overall approach to controlling progress B. Incorrect. It is a responsibility of the team manager to
needs to be recorded, as a minimum, not the detail of how prepare a team plan and agree it with the project manager.
reports are to be amended. Ref 12.2 Ref 7.2.1.8
C. Incorrect. To be following PRINCE2, a project must, as a C. Incorrect. It is a responsibility of project support to
minimum, set tolerances. All six tolerance areas must be maintain project files according to document control
used, as given in the 'manage by exception' principle. Ref procedures. Ref 7.2.1.9
12.2, 3.5 D. Correct. It is the project board's responsibility to agree
D. Incorrect. The levels of control will remain the same even if to each change before it's implemented. The project
the project management team structure and roles are board may delegate some authority for approving or
tailored. Ref 7.1, 12.2 rejecting requests for change to the change authority.
33 C 3.7.1a A. Incorrect. The purpose of the plans theme is to facilitate Ref 7.2.1.6
communication and control by defining the means of 36 B 2.1d A. Incorrect. The 'focus on products' principle ensures that
delivering the products (the where and how, by whom, and the project focuses on the definition and delivery of products,
estimating the when and how much). Ref 9.1 in particular their quality requirements. Ref 3.6
B. Incorrect. The purpose of the change theme is to identify, B. Correct. The focus on managing by stages ensures that
assess and control any potential and approved changes to the project is properly initiated before work starts on
the baseline. Ref 11.1 delivery of the project’s outputs. Ref 3.4
C. Correct. The purpose of the progress theme is to C. Incorrect. The 'defined roles and responsibilities' principle
establish mechanisms to monitor and compare actual defines an organization structure that engages the business,
achievements against those planned, provide a forecast user and supplier stakeholder interests, setting out who is
for the project objectives and the project's continued accountable. Ref 3.3
viability, and control any unacceptable deviations. Ref D. Incorrect. The 'continued business justification' principle
12.1 defines that a project must be desirable, viable and
D. Incorrect. The purpose of the quality theme is to define achievable. Ref 3.1
and implement the means by which the project will verify that 37 C 3.4.3c A. Incorrect. The length of management stages can be longer
products are fit for purpose. Ref 8.1 when risk is lower- a complex risk is unlikely to be lower risk.
Ref 9.3.1.1
B. Incorrect. The length of management stages can be longer
when risk is lower- understanding risk does not make a risk
lower. Ref 9.3.1.1
C. Correct. The length of management stages can be
longer when risk is lower, typically in the middle of
projects. Ref 9.3.1.1
D. Incorrect. The length of management stages can be
shorter when risk is higher. Ref 9.3.1.1

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 Q A Syllabus Ref Rationale Q A Syllabus Ref Rationale
38 B 4.3g A. Incorrect. When handing over products, the benefits 41 C 3.2.2 A. Incorrect. It is the responsibility of the senior user to verify
management approach is checked to ensure that post-project user requirements, but it is not a minimum requirement. Ref
benefits reviews are planned. However, these are performed 7.2, tab 7.1
after the project, not within the 'closing a project process'. Ref B. Incorrect. A delegated change authority is optional not a
20.4.3 minimum, requirement. Ref 7.2
B. Correct. During the ‘closing a project’ process, C. Correct. To be following PRINCE2, a project must, as a
ownership of the products is transferred to the customer minimum, define its organization structure and roles.
and the responsibility of the project management team is This must minimally ensure that all of the responsibilities
then terminated. Ref 20.3, 20.4.3 in PRINCE2’s role descriptions are fulfilled. Ref 7.2
C. Incorrect. At the end of the final stage an end project D. Incorrect. It is the responsibility of the senior supplier to
report is created. Ref 20.4.4 provide supplier resources, but it is not a minimum
D. Incorrect. The project closure notification is sent to the requirement to ensure they are available. Ref 7.2, tab 7.1
project board for review and approval in the 'directing a 42 B 4.2e A. Incorrect. When a work package is being negotiated is
project' process. Ref 20.4.5, 15.4.5 when the project manager and team manager agree the
39 C 4.1a A. Incorrect. To understand the resources and costs to deliver timing of checkpoint reports. Ref 12.2.2.4, 18.4.1
the project's products is an objective of the 'initiating a B. Correct. A team manager is required to provide
project' process. Ref 16.1 checkpoint reports at the frequency agreed with the
B. Incorrect. To ensure that there is authority to deliver the project manager in the relevant work package. Ref 18.2,
project's products is an objective of the 'directing a project' 12.2.2.4, 18.4.2
process. Ref 15.1 C. Incorrect. Checkpoints are a time-driven control and done
C. Correct. The 'starting up a project' process is a lighter at a frequency agreed in the work package, not driven by
process compared to the more detailed and thorough such events as completing quality-checking activities. Ref
'initiating a project' process. Ref 14.1 12.2.2.4, 18.4.2
D. Incorrect. The suite of management products make up the D. Incorrect. The team manager is not involved in reviewing
project initiation documentation which is created during the how a stage is progressing. Ref 12.2.2.2, 17.4.4, tab 17.4
'initiating a project' process. Ref 16.3 43 A 4.1b A. Correct. The 'directing a project' process provides a
40 C 1.2b A. Incorrect. PRINCE2 refers to the organization that mechanism for the project board to achieve such
commissions a project as ‘corporate, programme assurance without being overburdened by project
management or the customer’. This organization is activity. Ref 15.3
responsible for providing the project’s mandate, governing B. Incorrect. The 'directing a project' process covers the
the project, and for realizing any benefits that the project activities of those at the level of management above the
might deliver. Ref 2.5 project manager. Ref 15.3
B. Incorrect. PRINCE2 refers to the organization that C. Incorrect. The project board manage by exception. It
commissions a project as ‘corporate, programme monitors via reports and controls through a small number of
management or the customer’. This organization is decision points. There should be no need for other 'progress
responsible for providing the project’s mandate. Ref 2.5 meetings' for the project board. Ref 15.3
C. Correct. PRINCE2 refers to a supplier as the person, D. Incorrect. The 'directing a project' process starts on
group or groups responsible for the supply of the completion of the 'starting up a project' process. Ref 15.1
project’s specialist products. Ref 2.5 44 C 3.4.1a A. Incorrect. The purpose of the risk theme is to identify,
D. Incorrect. The senior user provides the customer’s quality assess and control uncertainty within the project. Ref 10.1
expectations and defines acceptance criteria for the project. B. Incorrect. The identification of project products involves
The senior user will define and verify user requirements and configuration management, part of the change theme. Ref
expectations. Ref C.3.1, tab 7.1 11.3.3
C. Correct. The purpose of the plans theme is to define
the means of delivering the products. Ref 9.1
D. Incorrect. A benefits management approach is associated
with the business case theme, not the plans theme. Ref 6.2,
A.1.1

14 PRINCE2® Foundation | Sample Paper 2 Answers and Rationales | Copyright© PeopleCert International Ltd. PRINCE2® Foundation | Sample Paper 2 Answers and Rationales | Copyright© PeopleCert International Ltd. 15
 Q A Syllabus Ref Rationale Q A Syllabus Ref Rationale
45 B 3.3.1b A. Incorrect. The customer's quality requirements are defined 49 D 1.1a A. Incorrect. Projects introduce threats and opportunities
in a project product description. Ref A.21.1 over and above those typically encountered in the course of
B. Correct. The quality management approach is used to business as usual. Ref 2.1
define the quality techniques and standards to be B. Incorrect. Projects often cross the normal functional
applied during a project. Ref A.22.1 divisions within an organization and sometimes span entirely
C. Incorrect. The level of quality required for each of a different organizations. This frequently causes stresses and
project's products is the quality specification that is recorded strains. Ref 2.1
as the quality criteria in the associated product description. C. Incorrect. A project is a temporary organization that is
Ref A.17.1 created for the purpose of delivering one or more business
D. Incorrect. The quality register is used to summarize all of products. There are a number of characteristics of project
the quality management activities that are planned. Ref work that distinguishes it from business as usual. Ref 2.1
A.23.1 D. Correct. Projects involve a team of people with
46 D 2.1f A. Incorrect. A product's quality criteria describe the criteria different skills working together to introduce a change
against which a product will be approved. The setting of that will impact others outside the team. Ref 2.1
tolerances supports the 'manage by exception' principle. Ref 50 A 4.2f A. Correct. An objective of the 'managing a stage
3.5, A.17.5 boundary' process is for the project manager to request
B. Incorrect. A product's quality criteria describe the criteria authorization from the project board to start the next
against which a product will be approved. The defining of stage. Ref 19.2
responsibilities supports the 'defined roles and B. Incorrect. Risks do not have to be closed at the end of a
responsibilities' principle. Ref 3.3, A.17.5 stage. During each of the activities within the 'managing a
C. Incorrect. A product's quality criteria describe the criteria stage boundary' process, the issue register and risk register
against which a product will be approved. The justification of are updated as necessary. Ref 17.4, 17.4.1-8
the project supports the 'continued business justification' C. Incorrect. Ensuring that work on products allocated to the
principle. Ref 3.1, A.17.5 team for the next stage is authorized is an objective of the
D. Correct. A PRINCE2 project uses product descriptions 'managing product delivery' process, which ensures that work
to provide such clarity by defining each product's on products allocated to a team is authorized and agreed in a
purpose, composition, derivation, format, quality criteria work package. Ref 18.2
and quality method. Ref 3.6 D. Incorrect. An exception plan may be prepared during the
47 B 1.2a A. Incorrect. PRINCE2's strength is in its wide applicability - it ‘managing a stage boundary’ process to show how to recover
is entirely generic. Consequently, industry-specific or type- from a tolerance deviation, but selecting and implementing
specific activity is excluded. Specific techniques can readily be actions to resolve the deviation would occur as part of the
used alongside PRINCE2. Ref 1.2 'take corrective action' activity in the 'controlling a stage'
B. Correct. PRINCE2 promotes learning from project process. Ref 17.4.8
experience and continual improvement in organizations. 51 D 4.2b A. Incorrect. The 'starting up a project' process only requests
Ref 1 authorization to initiate a project. Ref fig 14.1
C. Incorrect. Leadership styles and motivational skill vary B. Incorrect. The 'initiating a project' process only requests
greatly from one project environment to another. Hence, to authorization to deliver a project; it is the 'directing a project'
keep the generic nature of PRINCE2 intact, such styles and process that provides the authority. Ref 16.3, 15.2
skills are excluded. Ref 1.2 C. Incorrect. The 'managing a stage boundary' process only
D. Incorrect. PRINCE2 is intended to be used to manage only requests authorization to start the next stage; it is the
projects, not programmes. Ref 1 'directing a project' process that provides the authority. Ref
48 C 3.2.3j A. Incorrect. It is the project board’s responsibility to agree to 19.2, 15.2
each potential change before it is implemented. In a project D. Correct. An objective of the 'directing a project'
where few changes are envisaged, it may be reasonable to process is to ensure that there is authority to deliver the
leave this authority in the hands of the project board. Ref project's products. Ref 15.2
7.2.1.6
B. Incorrect. The team manager role may be assigned to the
project manager or a separate person. Ref 7.2.1.8
C. Correct. The executive and project manager roles
cannot be combined. The executive’s accountability for
project success cannot be delegated. Ref 7.2.1.10
D. Incorrect. Project support is the responsibility of the
project manager. The role defaults to the project manager if it
is not otherwise allocated. Ref 7.2.1.9

16 PRINCE2® Foundation | Sample Paper 2 Answers and Rationales | Copyright© PeopleCert International Ltd. PRINCE2® Foundation | Sample Paper 2 Answers and Rationales | Copyright© PeopleCert International Ltd. 17
 Q A Syllabus Ref Rationale Q A Syllabus Ref Rationale
52 A 3.1.2 A. Correct. It is a minimum requirement that the roles 55 A 4.3f A. Correct. The 'managing a stage boundary' process
and responsibilities for the business case and benefits should be executed at, or close to the end of, each
management are defined and documented. Therefore, management stage. The process is used to enable the
this includes responsibility for defining any standards to project board to receive sufficient information to review
which the business case needs to be developed. Ref 6.2, the current stage before starting the next. Ref 19.1
tab 6.1 B. Incorrect. The activities to manage a stage boundary
B. Incorrect. It is usually advisable that the senior user comes should be planned to take place at, or close to the end of,
from an area of the business impacted by the change, but it is each management stage, not at the start. Ref 19.1
not a minimum requirement. Ref 6.2.3, 6.2 C. Incorrect. The activities to manage a stage boundary
C. Incorrect. If corporate, programme management or the should be planned to take place at, or close to the end of,
customer are to manage or participate in the benefits each management stage. However, the 'closing a project'
reviews, the project board may need to seek their approval process occurs at the end of the final management stage. Ref
but it is not a minimum requirement to obtain such approval. 19.1, fig 13.1
Ref 6.2.3, 6.2 D. Incorrect. The 'starting up a project' process is not a
D. Incorrect. Development of the business justification may management stage and therefore does not use the
be delegated, for example to the project manager. However, 'managing a stage boundary' process. The 'managing a stage
this is not a minimum requirement. Ref 6.2.1, 14.4.4, 6.2 boundary' process is not used at the end of the 'starting up a
53 A 4.1i A. Correct. The project initiation documentation, project' process. Ref 14.3, fig 13.1
baselined in the 'initiating a project' process, is used 56 C 3.1.3 A. Incorrect. A measurable improvement that is perceived as
during the 'closing a project' process as the benchmark to an advantage by one or more stakeholders is a project's
review how the project actually performed against its benefit. Ref 6.1, glossary
planned targets and tolerances. Ref 20.2, 20.4.4 B. Incorrect. The reason for the project is why the project is
B. Incorrect. The controls for the final stage are contained in required not the result of a change derived from using the
the stage plan rather than the project initiation project's outputs. Ref 6.1, 6.2, 6.2.1
documentation. Ref 19.4.1 C. Correct. A project outcome is the result of a change
C. Incorrect. The lessons log and lesson report are not part of derived from using the project's outputs. Ref 6.1
the project initiation documentation. Ref A.20.2 D. Incorrect. The specialist products are defined as the
D. Incorrect. The project product description, which first project's outputs. Ref 6.1, glossary
forms part of the project brief and is then incorporated into 57 B 1.1b A. Incorrect. The six aspects of project performance to be
the project initiation documentation, is approved during the managed are costs, timescales, scope, quality, risk and
'initiating a project' process and at the end of each stage. It is benefits. Change is a theme. Ref 2.3, 11.1
not approved as part of the 'closing a project' process. Ref fig B. Correct. The six aspects of project performance to be
15.3, tab 15.3, A.19.2 managed are costs, timescales, scope, quality, risk and
54 C 4.3c A. Incorrect. The 'starting up a project' process aims to ensure benefits. Ref 2.3
that there is a clear project mandate that provides the terms C. Incorrect. The six aspects of project performance to be
of reference for the project and should contain sufficient managed are costs, timescales, scope, quality, risk and
information to identify at least the prospective executive of benefits. Change is a theme. Ref 2.3, 11.1
the project board. Ref 14.3 D. Incorrect. The six aspects of project performance to be
B. Incorrect. The 'directing a project' process provides a managed are costs, timescales, scope, quality, risk and
mechanism for the project board to meet its responsibility for benefits. Change is a theme. Ref 2.3, 11.1
ensuring that there is continued business justification without 58 C 3.4.2 A. Incorrect. 'Starting up a project' is a PRINCE2 process, not a
being overburdened by project activity. Ref 15.3 stage. A process is a structured set of activities designed to
C. Correct. It Is the 'initiating a project' process that aims accomplish a specific objective. Ref 14.1, 13.1, fig 13.1
to ensure that all parties are be clear on what the project B. Incorrect. To be following PRINCE2, a project must, as a
is intended to achieve, why it is needed and how the minimum, have an initiation stage and at least one further
outcome is to be achieved. Ref 16.3 management stage. ‘Closing a project’ is a process, not a
D. Incorrect. The 'managing product delivery' process views stage. Ref 9.2, fig 13.1
the project from the team manager’s perspective and aims to C. Correct. To be following PRINCE2, a project must, as a
ensure that products are created and delivered by the team minimum, have an initiation stage and at least one
to the project. Ref 18.3 further management stage. Ref 9.2
D. Incorrect. 'Closing a project' is a process, not a stage. Ref
20.1, fig 13.1

18 PRINCE2® Foundation | Sample Paper 2 Answers and Rationales | Copyright© PeopleCert International Ltd. PRINCE2® Foundation | Sample Paper 2 Answers and Rationales | Copyright© PeopleCert International Ltd. 19
 Q
59
A
D
Syllabus Ref
3.2.4b
Rationale
A. Incorrect. It is important to review the communication
Notes
management approach at each stage boundary, not just at
the start of the project, to ensure that it includes all the key
stakeholders. Ref 7.2.2
B. Incorrect. Project board members are stakeholders
representing the three primary categories: business, user and
supplier. Ref 7.1
C. Incorrect. Stakeholders may be internal or external to the
corporate organization. Ref 7.1
D. Correct. The three principle categories of stakeholders:
business, user and supplier, are represented by the
executive, senior user(s) and senior supplier(s). Ref 7.1
60 A 4.3a A. Correct. The project mandate should provide the terms
of reference for a project. Ref 14.3
B. Incorrect. The detailed business case is produced during
the 'initiating a project' process when the outline business
case is updated. Ref 16.4.8
C. Incorrect. The project mandate may include the project
tolerances but it is the project board's responsibility to
identify stage tolerances. Ref 12.2.1
D. Incorrect. The creation of the plan for the initiation stage is
the last activity during the 'starting up a project' process and
is the responsibility of the project manager. Information from
the project mandate may be contained in the plan but the
actual plan itself is not included in the project mandate. Ref
14.4.6

20 PRINCE2® Foundation | Sample Paper 2 Answers and Rationales | Copyright© PeopleCert International Ltd. PRINCE2® Foundation | Sample Paper 2 Answers and Rationales | Copyright© PeopleCert International Ltd. 21
Notes Notes