Understanding the Sprint Backlog: Output of Sprint Planning
In Scrum, the Sprint Backlog is a crucial artifact that emerges from the Sprint Planning event. It represents the Scrum Team’s plan for the upcoming Sprint. This topic is often tested in the PSM I exam.
Exam Question
Which statement best describes the Sprint Backlog as the output of the Sprint Planning?
(choose the best answer)
- A. It is a complete list of all work to be done in a Sprint.
- B. Each task is estimated in hours.
- C. It is the Scrum Team’s plan for the Sprint.
- D. Every item has a designated owner.
- E. It is ordered by the Product Owner.
Correct Answer
C. It is the Scrum Team’s plan for the Sprint.
Explanation
Why C is Correct
C. It is the Scrum Team’s plan for the Sprint: The Sprint Backlog is not just a list of tasks; it is the comprehensive plan the Scrum Team creates to achieve the Sprint Goal. It includes the set of Product Backlog items selected for the Sprint, plus a plan for delivering the product Increment and realizing the Sprint Goal. The Developers work together to decide what they can accomplish during the Sprint and create a detailed plan to guide their work.
Key Points
- Team Collaboration: The Sprint Backlog is created collaboratively by the entire Scrum Team during the Sprint Planning event.
- Dynamic and Adaptable: It can evolve as more is learned during the Sprint, allowing the team to adjust and refine their approach as needed.
- Focus on Goals: It is centered around achieving the Sprint Goal, ensuring that all tasks and activities are aligned with this objective.
Responsibilities in Scrum
- Product Owner: Ensures the Product Backlog is ordered and refined to maximize value and align with the team’s capacity.
- Scrum Master: Facilitates the Sprint Planning event, ensuring the team collaboratively defines a clear and achievable Sprint Goal.
- Developers: Collaborate to create the Sprint Goal and the Sprint Backlog, ensuring all work aligns with the Sprint Goal.
Relevance to the PSM I Exam
Understanding the nature and purpose of the Sprint Backlog is crucial for the PSM I exam. It highlights the importance of collaborative planning, continuous improvement, and maintaining a clear focus on the Sprint Goal.
Conclusion
In summary, the Sprint Backlog is the Scrum Team’s plan for the Sprint. It is a dynamic and adaptable artifact that guides the team in achieving the Sprint Goal, emphasizing collaboration and continuous planning.

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More PSM I exam questions
- True or False: It is mandatory that the product increment be released to production at the end of each Sprint.
- For the purpose of transparency, when does Scrum say a valuable and useful Increment must be available?
- True or False: An Increment must be released to customers or users at the end of each Sprint.” (PSM I)
- When many Scrum Teams are working on the same product, should all of their Increments be integrated every Sprint?” (PSM I)
- When must a Scrum Team release each Increment?” (PSM I)
