The Sprint Goal is created during Sprint Planning. It is mandatory, and it is crafted by the whole Scrum Team as part of planning, not before it or during the Sprint.
Exam Question
When should a Sprint Goal be created? (choose the best answer)
- A. During Sprint Planning.
- B. It should have been created in the previous Sprint during Product Backlog refinement.
- C. A Sprint Goal is not mandatory in Scrum.
- D. At any time during the Sprint.
- E. It must be established before Sprint Planning in order to begin planning.
Correct Answer
A. During Sprint Planning.
Why This Is the Correct Answer
Sprint Planning addresses three topics, and the first is why the Sprint is valuable. The Scrum Guide says “the whole Scrum Team then collaborates to define a Sprint Goal that communicates why the Sprint is valuable to stakeholders” and that “the Sprint Goal must be finalized prior to the end of Sprint Planning.” The Product Owner may come in with a proposal for how the product could increase its value, but the goal itself takes shape in the event. Once set, it is the commitment of the Sprint Backlog and gives the Developers focus and flexibility for the rest of the Sprint.
Why the Other Options Are Wrong
B. During refinement in the previous Sprint. Refinement prepares Product Backlog items. The Sprint Goal is agreed by the Scrum Team at Sprint Planning.
C. A Sprint Goal is not mandatory. The Sprint Goal is the commitment for the Sprint Backlog in the 2020 Scrum Guide. Every Sprint has one.
D. At any time during the Sprint. Without a goal from the start, the Sprint lacks focus. It must be finalized before Sprint Planning ends.
E. Before Sprint Planning so planning can begin. The Product Owner can bring an idea, but the goal is crafted together during Sprint Planning.
Exam Tip
Look for the phrase “finalized prior to the end of Sprint Planning”. Answers that move the Sprint Goal earlier, later or make it optional are wrong.
Key Takeaways
- The Sprint Goal is set during Sprint Planning.
- Every Sprint has a Sprint Goal.
- The whole Scrum Team crafts it together.
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More PSM I exam questions
- Why do the Developers need a Sprint Goal?” (PSM I)
- How much of the Sprint Backlog must be defined during the Sprint Planning event?” (PSM I)
- True or False: The Sprint Backlog is a result of Sprint Planning, and it includes the Sprint Goal.” (PSM I)
- Answering “True or False: The Sprint Goal is selected before the Sprint Backlog is created
- Which of the following are appropriate topics for discussion during a Sprint Retrospective?” (PSM I)