Answering: “The Product Backlog is ordered by:” (PSM I)

The Product Owner orders the Product Backlog so that the most valuable work comes first. Risk, size and random placement are not the rule, though they can inform the Product Owner’s decision.

Exam Question

The Product Backlog is ordered by: (choose the best answer)

• A. The Product Owner with the most valuable items placed at the top.
• B. Risk, where safer items are at the top, and riskier items are at the bottom.
• C. Size, where small items are at the top and large items are at the bottom.
• D. Items are randomly arranged.

Correct Answer

A. The Product Owner with the most valuable items placed at the top.

Why This Is the Correct Answer

Product Backlog management is part of the Product Owner’s accountability, and the Scrum Guide lists “Ordering Product Backlog items” among those duties. The Product Owner is accountable for maximizing the value of the product resulting from the work of the Scrum Team, so the order reflects how to get the most value soonest. Many factors feed that judgment, such as risk, dependencies, learning needs and cost. No single factor is a fixed rule. Higher ordered items are usually clearer and more detailed than lower ones, because they will be worked on soon.

Why the Other Options Are Wrong

B. By risk, with safer items at the top. Risky items often need to be tackled early so the team learns quickly. A fixed safe-first rule can delay critical learning.

C. By size, with small items at the top. Size alone says nothing about value. Big valuable items get broken down, not pushed to the bottom.

D. Randomly. A random order gives the Developers no guidance and makes the Product Backlog useless for planning.

Exam Tip

For ordering questions, pick the option that names the Product Owner and value. Rules based on a single attribute like size or risk are distractors.

Key Takeaways

• The Product Owner orders the Product Backlog.
• Order aims to maximize value.
• Risk, size and dependencies inform order but do not dictate it.