What is the purpose of a 'credit path' in LEED planning?

• A. Determines the sequence of construction tasks
• B. Establishes the budget for credits
• C. Guides which credits to pursue to maximize points within project constraints
• D. Specifies required certifications for contractors

Answer: (C)

The credit path is a planning approach used at the start of a LEED project to decide which credits to pursue so you can maximize total points within the project’s constraints. It looks at prerequisites that must be met, how credits interact with each other, and where you can get the most points for the least extra effort or cost. This helps the team forecast feasible credits, align design decisions with owner goals, and map out a realistic documentation plan.

This isn’t about sequencing construction tasks, nor about setting a separate budget just for credits, and it isn’t about contractor certifications. It’s about choosing a feasible, high-value set of credits that fit the project’s budget, schedule, and scope while aiming for the desired certification level.