Understanding the Topics Covered in Sprint Planning

Sprint Planning is a crucial event in the Scrum framework, setting the stage for a successful Sprint. Here’s an analysis of an exam question related to the topics covered in Sprint Planning:

Exam Question

Which answer best describes the topics covered in Sprint Planning? (choose the best answer)

• A. Who is on the team and what team member roles will be.
• B. What to do and who will do it.
• C. How conditions have changed and how the Product Backlog should evolve.
• D. What went wrong in the last Sprint and what to do differently this Sprint.
• E. What can be done, how to do it, and why to do it.

Correct Answer

E. What can be done, how to do it, and why to do it.

Explanation

Why E is Correct

Sprint Planning focuses on defining the work to be completed during the upcoming Sprint. This involves three key topics:

• What can be done: The team selects items from the Product Backlog that can be completed within the Sprint.
• How to do it: The team plans the work necessary to turn the selected Product Backlog items into a potentially shippable product Increment.
• Why to do it: The team discusses the Sprint Goal, which provides a clear objective for the Sprint and aligns the team’s efforts with the overall product vision.

Key Characteristics of Sprint Planning:

• Collaboration: The entire Scrum Team collaborates to plan the Sprint, ensuring that everyone is aligned and understands their roles and responsibilities.
• Commitment: The team commits to the work they believe can be completed during the Sprint.
• Transparency: The planning process is transparent, with all team members understanding the scope and objectives of the Sprint.

Examining the Other Options

A. Who is on the team and what team member roles will be: This is not the focus of Sprint Planning. Team composition and roles are typically determined outside of the Sprint Planning event.

B. What to do and who will do it: While this partially covers the topics discussed, it does not fully capture the scope of Sprint Planning, which also includes defining how the work will be done and the purpose behind it.

C. How conditions have changed and how the Product Backlog should evolve: This is more relevant to the Product Backlog Refinement process, where the Product Owner and team discuss and adjust the backlog based on new information and changing conditions.

D. What went wrong in the last Sprint and what to do differently this Sprint: This is the focus of the Sprint Retrospective, not Sprint Planning.

Roles and Responsibilities in Scrum

• Developers: Work on all tasks required to create a product Increment, from coding and testing to designing and integrating.
• Scrum Master: Facilitates the Sprint Planning event, helps remove impediments, and ensures the team follows Scrum principles.
• Product Owner: Presents the Product Backlog items and collaborates with the team to define the Sprint Goal and select items for the Sprint.

Relevance to the PSM I Exam

Understanding the topics covered in Sprint Planning is vital for the PSM I exam. This knowledge helps candidates recognize the importance of collaborative planning, setting clear goals, and aligning the team’s efforts with the overall product vision. These elements are fundamental to the success of Scrum projects.

Conclusion

Sprint Planning is a critical event that sets the direction for the upcoming Sprint. By focusing on what can be done, how to do it, and why to do it, the Scrum Team ensures that they are aligned and prepared to deliver a valuable product Increment. Understanding this process is key to mastering Scrum and succeeding in the PSM I exam.

For comprehensive preparation and practice exams, check out PSM I Exam Prep to enhance your understanding and application of Scrum principles.