Sample Questions from Certified ScrumMaster (CSM) by Scrum Alliance

Preview a few questions below — answers are revealed when you take the exam.

1. A team is struggling with maintaining a consistent workflow due to frequent changes in project requirements. What approach should they take to manage this effectively?

   • Implement a strict waterfall methodology to ensure that all requirements are finalized before any development begins.
   • Adopt an Agile approach, using Scrum to allow for iterative development and regular reassessment of priorities.
   • Use a Kanban board to visualize the workflow but avoid any changes to the process mid-sprint.
   • Rely solely on daily stand-up meetings to address any issues without making any changes to the workflow.

2. During a sprint, a critical bug is discovered that affects the current sprint's deliverables. How should the Scrum Master handle this situation?

   • Postpone addressing the bug until the next sprint to maintain the current sprint's focus.
   • Immediately halt the sprint, fix the bug, and then restart the sprint.
   • Incorporate the bug fix into the current sprint, even if it means reprioritizing some tasks.
   • Assign the bug fix to a separate team to avoid disrupting the current sprint.

3. Identify the primary role of a Scrum Master in a Scrum team.

   • To act as the project manager and oversee all aspects of the project.
   • To ensure the team adheres to Scrum practices and remove any impediments to their progress.
   • To make all technical decisions and write the code for the project.
   • To manage the product backlog and determine the scope of each sprint.

4. Consider a situation where team members are consistently missing sprint goals. What strategy should be applied when addressing this issue?

   • Blame individual team members for their lack of contribution and consider replacing them.
   • Conduct a retrospective to identify root causes and collaboratively develop solutions to improve performance.
   • Increase the workload for the next sprint to make up for lost time.
   • Ignore the issue, assuming it will resolve itself over time.

5. Which configuration is most appropriate for a Scrum team to ensure effective communication and collaboration?

   • A hierarchical structure with a clear chain of command.
   • A cross-functional team with members having diverse skills and backgrounds.
   • A team composed entirely of developers with no other roles.
   • A team that meets only once a week to discuss progress.