During project execution, a stakeholder requests a significant scope change that could delay the project by two months. What should the project manager do first?

Correct answer: Submit the change request through the formal change control process for evaluation

Option A is correct because the formal change control process is the prescribed PMBOK mechanism for evaluating any scope change: the project manager documents the request, assesses the impact on schedule, cost, risk, and quality, and submits it to the change control board for a decision before any action is taken. Option B is incorrect because accepting the change and adjusting the schedule without evaluation bypasses governance and risks uncontrolled scope creep. Option C is incorrect because unilaterally rejecting the change is also outside the project manager's authority and ignores the possibility that the change may have legitimate business value worth the schedule impact. Option D is incorrect because discussing with the sponsor before any decision, while sometimes appropriate, is not the first required action; the formal process must be initiated first, after which the sponsor may be one of the approvers.