Project Planning and Estimation Foundations

Delivering projects on time and within budget requires a solid foundation in structured planning and realistic estimation. Without these core skills, even the most promising initiatives can face costly delays and scope creep. This text-based course guides you through the essential principles of project scheduling, resource allocation, and modern estimation methodologies, helping you transition from guessing timelines to confidently structuring project phases. What you'll learn: - Understand foundational project planning concepts and the lifecycle of a project - Master estimation techniques including analogous, parametric, and three-point estimating - Apply modern agile estimation practices such as story points and team-based sizing - Create clear project schedules using critical path analysis and milestone planning - Identify and manage project risks, contingency buffers, and resource constraints - Track project progress using key performance metrics and variance analysis The course begins with core terminology and structural planning concepts before moving into practical estimation models and scheduling workflows. You will read real-world scenarios and engage with written exercises designed to reinforce your planning skills. This course is designed for aspiring project managers, team leaders, and beginners who want to build a strong foundation in project management with no prior experience required. Start reading today to master the art of accurate project estimation and planning.