How is a project schedule best described?

A project schedule is best described as a timeline indicating project start and end dates because it provides a structured overview of what needs to be accomplished, when, and often includes the sequence of events or tasks that must be completed to achieve the overall project goals. A well-defined project schedule helps in monitoring progress, managing resources effectively, and ensuring that all team members are aware of deadlines and deliverables.

In addition to start and end dates, a project schedule may include milestones, task durations, and dependencies among tasks, which are vital for accurate project management. This timeline aspect is crucial because it drives decision-making and helps maintain project momentum.

The other options, while relevant to project management, do not capture the essence of a project schedule. A detailed project report focuses on summarizing project performance and outcomes rather than outlining the timeline. A list of project risks identifies potential issues that could impact the project but does not organize tasks and timelines. A compilation of team roles delineates who is responsible for various aspects of the project but does not convey the chronological sequence or timing of project activities. Thus, the most accurate description of a project schedule is indeed one that focuses on the timeline indicating project start and end dates.