The Boundary Is Time and Certainty

A risk is a possible future event. An issue is already real. If the problem has happened, needs ownership now, or is blocking delivery, it belongs in the issue log. If it might happen and needs response planning, it belongs in the risk register.

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Common Exam Trap

Questions often hide the clue in the tense. Words like may, could, or might usually signal risk. Words like is blocked or has occurred usually signal issue.