Professional Scrum Master I ( PSM I ) Certification Sample Questions
- CertiMaan
- Oct 16, 2025
- 15 min read
Updated: Jun 15
The Professional Scrum Master I ( PSM I ) Certification is a globally recognized Scrum certification offered by Scrum.org that validates a professional’s understanding of Scrum principles, Agile practices, Scrum roles, events, artifacts, and the Scrum framework. Earning the PSM I credential demonstrates that you possess a strong foundational knowledge of Scrum and can effectively apply Scrum concepts in real-world Agile environments.
The PSM I certification is ideal for Scrum Masters, Agile Coaches, Project Managers, Product Owners, Business Analysts, Software Developers, Team Leads, and professionals who want to build expertise in Agile project delivery. As organizations continue to adopt Agile methodologies to improve productivity, collaboration, and customer value, the demand for certified Scrum professionals remains strong across industries including software development, finance, healthcare, telecommunications, and consulting.
This page is designed to help certification candidates understand the PSM I exam structure, preparation approach, and the importance of using high-quality practice questions during their study journey. Whether you are preparing for your first Scrum certification or looking to validate your Agile knowledge, practicing exam-style questions can significantly improve your readiness.
Professional Scrum Master I practice questions help you become familiar with the exam format, identify knowledge gaps, strengthen your understanding of Scrum concepts, and improve your ability to answer scenario-based questions under time constraints. Consistent practice also helps reinforce key topics such as Scrum Values, Sprint Planning, Daily Scrum, Sprint Review, Sprint Retrospective, Product Backlog Management, accountability within Scrum Teams, and Agile mindset principles.
By using the resources and sample questions provided on this page, candidates can build confidence, enhance their exam preparation strategy, and move closer to successfully achieving the Professional Scrum Master I (PSM I) Certification. This guide aims to support your learning journey with practical, certification-focused information that aligns with current Scrum and Agile best practices.
Table of Contents
Professional Scrum Master I ( PSM I ) Certification – Exam Details
Exam Detail | Information |
Certification | Professional Scrum Master I (PSM I) |
Exam Code | PSM I |
Provider | |
Certification Level | Foundation / Entry-Level Scrum Master Certification |
Exam Format | Multiple Choice, Multiple Answer, and True/False Questions |
Number of Questions | 80 Questions |
Exam Duration | 60 Minutes |
Passing Score | 85% (68 Correct Answers out of 80) |
Exam Language | English (additional languages may be available) |
Delivery Method | Online, Web-Based Exam |
Exam Cost | USD $200 (subject to change by Scrum.org) |
Difficulty Level | Moderate to Advanced |
Recommended Experience | Understanding of Scrum Guide, Agile Principles, and Scrum Framework |
Retake Policy | Available through Scrum.org policies and fee structure |
Credential Validity | Lifetime Certification (No Renewal Required) |
Key Focus Areas | Scrum Theory, Scrum Values, Scrum Team, Events, Artifacts, Accountability, Agile Principles |
Target Audience | Scrum Masters, Agile Coaches, Project Managers, Developers, Product Owners, Business Analysts, Team Leads |
Official Website |
How to Prepare for the Professional Scrum Master I ( PSM I ) Certification Exam
Preparing for the Professional Scrum Master I (PSM I) Certification requires more than simply memorizing Scrum terminology. The exam is designed to assess your understanding of Scrum principles, empirical process control, Scrum Values, accountabilities, events, artifacts, and your ability to apply Scrum concepts in practical situations. A structured preparation strategy can significantly improve your chances of passing the exam on the first attempt.
1. Master the Scrum Guide
The most important resource for PSM I preparation is the official Scrum Guide. Since Scrum.org bases the exam directly on the Scrum framework, candidates should thoroughly understand every section of the guide, including:
Scrum Theory and Empiricism
Scrum Values
Scrum Team Accountabilities
Product Owner Responsibilities
Scrum Master Responsibilities
Developers' Responsibilities
Scrum Events
Scrum Artifacts
Commitments and Transparency
Read the Scrum Guide multiple times until you can confidently explain each concept in your own words.
2. Understand Agile and Lean Principles
While the exam focuses on Scrum, it also expects candidates to understand Agile thinking and Lean principles. Learn how Scrum supports iterative delivery, continuous improvement, customer collaboration, and adaptive planning.
Focus on:
Agile Manifesto
Agile Principles
Lean Thinking
Incremental Development
Continuous Improvement
Value Delivery
3. Practice with Mock Exams
Practice exams are one of the most effective ways to prepare for PSM I. Mock tests help you:
Understand question patterns
Improve time management
Identify weak knowledge areas
Build exam confidence
Become comfortable with scenario-based questions
After each practice test, review every incorrect answer and understand the reasoning behind the correct option.
4. Focus on Scenario-Based Learning
Many PSM I questions present real-world Scrum situations. Instead of memorizing definitions, learn how Scrum should be applied in practical environments.
Ask yourself:
What would a Scrum Master do in this situation?
Which Scrum Value is being supported?
Does the action align with Scrum principles?
This approach develops the mindset required for success in the exam.
5. Create a Revision Plan
During the final week before the exam:
Review Scrum Guide summaries daily
Revisit difficult topics
Take full-length timed mock exams
Analyze recurring mistakes
Strengthen weak domains
Consistent revision improves retention and boosts confidence.
6. Use Quality Practice Questions
Well-structured practice questions can help reinforce Scrum concepts and prepare you for exam-style thinking. Focus on understanding why an answer is correct rather than memorizing answers. This method develops the practical knowledge needed to succeed in the Professional Scrum Master I (PSM I) Certification exam.
By combining Scrum Guide study, Agile knowledge, practical scenarios, and regular mock testing, candidates can build a strong foundation and approach the PSM I exam with confidence and clarity.
Reviewed & Verified by CertiMaan Certification Support Team
This Professional Scrum Master I (PSM I) Certification Exam Questions page has been carefully reviewed by the CertiMaan Certification Support Team to ensure accuracy, relevance, and alignment with the latest Professional Scrum Master I certification objectives published by Scrum.org.
The practice questions, preparation guidance, and certification information presented on this page are designed to help Scrum professionals, Agile practitioners, project leaders, and aspiring Scrum Masters strengthen their understanding of the Scrum framework and prepare effectively for the PSM I examination. Our review process focuses on maintaining certification relevance, conceptual accuracy, and practical applicability based on current Scrum standards and industry best practices.
The content is periodically reviewed to reflect updates to the Scrum Guide, Agile methodologies, Scrum accountabilities, Scrum events, Scrum artifacts, empirical process control, and Agile leadership practices. We emphasize educational value and conceptual learning to help candidates build genuine Scrum knowledge rather than relying on memorization techniques.
Review Methodology
Our certification content review process includes:
Verification against current Scrum framework principles
Alignment with official PSM I exam objectives
Validation of Scrum terminology and concepts
Review of Agile and Scrum best practices
Evaluation of scenario-based learning relevance
Continuous quality checks for clarity and accuracy
Why This Review Matters
The Professional Scrum Master I exam evaluates a candidate's ability to understand and apply Scrum effectively in real-world Agile environments. High-quality preparation materials can help learners improve conceptual understanding, identify knowledge gaps, and develop confidence before attempting the certification exam.
Topics Reviewed
Scrum Theory and Empiricism
Scrum Values
Scrum Team Accountabilities
Scrum Events and Timeboxes
Scrum Artifacts and Commitments
Product Backlog Management
Sprint Planning and Sprint Goals
Daily Scrum Practices
Sprint Review and Retrospective
Agile Principles and Lean Thinking
Scrum Master Responsibilities
Organizational Scrum Adoption
Career Benefits of Professional Scrum Master I ( PSM I ) Certification
The Professional Scrum Master I (PSM I) Certification is one of the most respected Scrum credentials for professionals seeking to establish or strengthen their expertise in Agile project delivery and Scrum practices. As organizations across industries continue to embrace Agile transformation, certified Scrum professionals are increasingly valued for their ability to help teams deliver products efficiently while maintaining transparency, collaboration, and continuous improvement.
Strengthens Your Agile and Scrum Expertise
PSM I validates your understanding of the Scrum framework, Scrum Values, empirical process control, and Agile principles. Employers recognize this certification as evidence that you understand how Scrum works and can contribute effectively within Agile teams.
The certification helps professionals develop practical knowledge in:
Scrum Framework Implementation
Agile Team Collaboration
Sprint Planning and Execution
Product Backlog Management
Continuous Improvement Practices
Stakeholder Communication
Agile Delivery Methodologies
Expands Career Opportunities
Organizations implementing Agile methodologies often seek professionals who understand Scrum and can help teams adopt Agile practices successfully. Holding a PSM I certification can make your profile more attractive for various Agile-focused roles.
Common career paths include:
Scrum Master
Associate Scrum Master
Agile Project Coordinator
Agile Team Facilitator
Project Manager
Product Owner Support Roles
Agile Coach (with additional experience)
Delivery Lead
Business Analyst in Agile Environments
The certification can also benefit software developers, QA engineers, DevOps professionals, and technical leads who work within Scrum teams.
Demonstrates Commitment to Professional Growth
Employers value professionals who invest in continuous learning. Achieving PSM I shows dedication to understanding modern project management practices and Agile delivery frameworks. It signals that you are committed to improving team performance and delivering business value through proven Agile approaches.
Supports Agile Transformation Initiatives
Many organizations are actively modernizing project delivery processes through Agile adoption. Certified Scrum professionals can contribute by helping teams understand Scrum principles, facilitating collaboration, removing impediments, and promoting a culture of continuous improvement.
Builds Industry Recognition
Because PSM I is offered by Scrum.org, it is recognized globally by employers, consulting firms, technology companies, financial institutions, healthcare organizations, and government agencies that utilize Agile methodologies.
Provides Long-Term Professional Value
Unlike certifications that require frequent renewal, the PSM I credential remains a valuable demonstration of Scrum knowledge throughout your career. Combined with practical experience, it can serve as a foundation for pursuing advanced Scrum and Agile certifications in the future.
For professionals looking to strengthen their Agile credentials, improve collaboration skills, and enhance their career prospects in modern project environments, the Professional Scrum Master I (PSM I) Certification can be a meaningful and respected addition to their professional portfolio.
40+ Professional Scrum Master I ( PSM I ) Exam Questions List :
1. A key stakeholder starts using the product several Sprints in and expresses quality concerns to the Product Owner, who informs the Scrum Master. What are the Scrum Master’s two best responses?
* Raise testing issues with testers for adjustments
* Defer discussion to the next Sprint Retrospective
* Tell the Product Owner that Developers set quality standards
* Urge the Product Owner to add quality items to the Product Backlog and share stakeholder concerns with Developers
* Guide the Product Owner on addressing this with Developers
2. When can Developers cancel a Sprint?
* If selected Product Backlog items become unreleasable
* When functional expectations are unclear
* They can’t—only the Product Owner can
* If the Product Owner is often absent
3. What are three ways Scrum fosters self-organization?
* By barring stakeholders from the development space
* By letting Developers choose their Sprint tasks
* By eliminating titles for Developers
* By offering a simple framework
* By forbidding documentation
4. When must a new working software Increment be ready for transparency?
* Before the release Sprint
* After acceptance testing
* Every 3 Sprints
* At each Sprint’s end
* When the Product Owner requests it
5. When does a Sprint conclude?
* When the Product Owner declares it finished
* When its timebox runs out
* When all tasks are done
* When all Product Backlog items are 'Done'
6. Must a product Increment be released to production each Sprint?
* FALSE
* TRUE
7. Which roles belong to a Scrum Team?
* Customers
* Developers
* Product Owner
* Users
* Scrum Master
8. What do self-organizing Developers decide?
* Release timing based on progress
* Sprint Review stakeholders
* How to best execute their work
* Sprint duration
* Product Backlog order
9. Is it true that cross-functional teams should specialize in one system layer or component?
* FALSE
* TRUE
10. What’s the Scrum Master’s role during the Daily Scrum?
* All of the above
* Train Developers to keep it within 15 minutes
* Lead Developer discussions
* Ensure all three questions are answered
* Manage equal speaking time
11. What best characterizes Scrum?
* A recipe for software development best practices
* A comprehensive software development methodology
* A framework for tackling complex products in dynamic environments
* A predictable process aligned with Scientific Management
12. What does a timeboxed event imply?
* A minimum duration is set
* A maximum duration is enforced
* It must occur by a deadline
* It happens at a fixed time
13. What two behaviors reflect a Scrum Team’s commitment?
* Work late to complete all tasks
* Assist fellow Scrum Team members
* Always meet Sprint forecasts
* Deliver top-quality effort
14. Who ensures Product Backlog items meet the Definition of 'Done'?
* The Scrum Team
* QA Specialists
* The Developers
* The Scrum Master
* The Product Owner
15. What three questions do Developers address in the Daily Scrum?
* Are there impediments blocking me or the team from the Sprint Goal?
* How’s the Sprint going?
* What’s my plan for tomorrow?
* Why was I delayed?
* What did I do yesterday to aid the Sprint Goal?
* What will I do today to support the Sprint Goal?
16. What expertise must the Scrum Team have?
* Finish the project within Product Owner’s time and budget
* Conduct all testing with extra tools
* Develop the product (no testing) for handoff
* Convert Product Backlog items into a valuable Increment
17. What best defines a software Increment?
* An automated test suite for past functionality
* UML diagrams for future features
* A task breakdown for future Sprints
* Usable new features enhancing prior deliveries
* A new UI design for existing features
18. What three purposes does the Definition of Done serve?
* Outline purpose, objective, and timebox of Scrum events
* Enhance transparency
* Establish a common understanding of completed work
* Assist Developers in Sprint item selection
* List tasks to finish the Sprint
19. How should a Scrum Master split 120 people into multiple Scrum Teams?
* Seek management’s help
* Group by skills across layers (e.g., Front End, Database, UI)
* Ask the Product Owner for assistance
* Let the group self-divide into teams
20. When does the second Sprint begin?
* After customer acceptance of the first Sprint
* Once architectural changes are approved
* After selecting the second Sprint’s Product Backlog
* Right after the first Sprint ends
Exam Tips for Professional Scrum Master I ( PSM I ) Certification
Passing the Professional Scrum Master I (PSM I) Certification exam requires a strong understanding of the Scrum framework and the ability to apply Scrum principles in practical situations. Because the exam includes scenario-based questions and requires a high passing score, candidates should approach their preparation strategically. The following tips can help improve readiness and boost confidence on exam day.
Understand the Scrum Guide Thoroughly
The majority of PSM I exam questions are based directly on the Scrum Guide. Rather than memorizing definitions, focus on understanding:
Scrum Theory and Empiricism
Scrum Values
Scrum Team Accountabilities
Scrum Events
Scrum Artifacts and Commitments
Roles and Responsibilities within Scrum
Many exam questions test whether you understand why Scrum practices exist and how they support value delivery.
Focus on Scrum Principles, Not Personal Opinions
A common mistake is answering questions based on workplace experience instead of Scrum principles. During the exam, always choose the answer that best aligns with the Scrum Guide and official Scrum practices.
Ask yourself:
What does Scrum recommend?
What promotes transparency?
What supports inspection and adaptation?
What maximizes value delivery?
Practice Time Management
The PSM I exam contains:
80 Questions
60 Minutes
This means you have less than one minute per question. During preparation:
Take timed practice exams
Learn to identify key question details quickly
Avoid spending too much time on difficult questions
Mark challenging questions for review when possible
Effective time management can significantly improve your final score.
Pay Attention to Scenario-Based Questions
Many questions describe real-world Agile situations. When answering:
Identify the Scrum principle involved
Determine which accountability is responsible
Consider the purpose of the Scrum event or artifact
Choose the option most consistent with Scrum values
Understanding context is often more important than memorizing terminology.
Strengthen Weak Knowledge Areas
After every mock exam:
Review incorrect answers
Understand why the correct answer is right
Revisit related Scrum Guide sections
Track recurring mistakes
Targeted improvement is more effective than repeatedly studying topics you already understand.
Learn the Scrum Vocabulary
The PSM I exam uses official Scrum terminology. Be comfortable with concepts such as:
Sprint Goal
Definition of Done
Product Goal
Increment
Product Backlog
Sprint Backlog
Self-Managing Teams
Empiricism
Accountability
A clear understanding of these terms reduces confusion during the exam.
Stay Calm and Trust Your Preparation
Many candidates experience exam anxiety because of the high passing score requirement. Confidence comes from preparation. If you have studied the Scrum Guide, practiced consistently, and reviewed your weak areas, trust your knowledge and remain focused throughout the exam.
A disciplined preparation strategy combined with practical practice questions can help you approach the Professional Scrum Master I (PSM I) Certification exam with confidence and increase your chances of success.
21. Are a Product Owner and Scrum Master mandatory for every Scrum Team?
* False—Scrum Master is optional if not requested
* True—Their involvement affects outcomes
* True—Both must be fully dedicated
* False—A skilled team member can replace the Product Owner
22. How does a Scrum Master keep Developers at peak productivity?
* By aiding Developer decisions
* By enforcing meeting schedules
* By clearing impediments
* By prioritizing high-value features
23. What are three ways Scrum supports self-management?
* By stripping titles from Scrum Team members
* By the team selecting Sprint tasks
* By removing titles for team members
* By the Scrum Master shielding the team from disruptions
* By being a lightweight framework
24. What does cross-functionality mean for Developers?
* A virtual team of analysts, architects, and testers
* Individuals with diverse skills for Increment delivery
* Collaboration with external specialists
* Inclusion of analysts and testers in the team
25. If a Scrum Team disputes agile practices, what should the Scrum Master do?
* Consult an external agile coach
* Refer team members to HR
* Involve the whole Scrum Team in decisions
* Use coaching with open questions and listening
26. What three goals does the Definition of 'Done' achieve?
Provides a template for technical documentation
Controls Developer task completion
Guides forecasting in Sprint Planning
Specifies Increment release readiness
Tracks item completion percentage
Ensures transparency at Sprint Review
27. What’s the Product Owner’s role in a Sprint Retrospective?
Report discussions to stakeholders
Skip the event
Gather Product Backlog requirements
Participate as a team member
28. After nine Sprints, a new Product Owner joins, unsure of their role. What two tasks define their Scrum responsibilities?
Supplying Developers with detailed specs
Writing functional test cases
Engaging with stakeholders
Detailing features as Use Cases
Prioritizing highest-value functionality
29. What are two key outcomes of the Daily Scrum?
An updated Scrum board for stakeholder visibility
New impediments for the Scrum Master to address
Task updates for the Scrum Master’s next-day plan
Agreement on priority work for Sprint Goal progress
A status update for management
30. Who is responsible for clearly defining Product Backlog items?
The business analyst
The Scrum Master
The Product Owner
The Project Manager
31. What comprises a Scrum Team?
Customers
Users
Developers
Project Managers
One Product Owner
One Scrum Master
32. Why does the Product Owner insist Developers follow the Definition of Done?
To predict deliveries over future Sprints
To monitor Story Point commitments
To forecast team productivity
To gain visibility into Sprint outcomes
33. Who determines how many Product Backlog items Developers take for a Sprint?
The Developers
The Scrum Team
Project Managers
The stakeholders
The Product Owner
The Scrum Master
34. When should a Sprint Retrospective occur?
At the end of a project’s last Sprint
Only when the team requests it
At each Sprint’s start
At each Sprint’s end
35. Are cross-functional teams designed for one technical layer only (e.g., GUI, database)?
FALSE
TRUE
36. What do self-managing Developers oversee?
Sprint length
Sprint Backlog
Sprint Review invitations
Product Backlog priority
Increment release
37. During a Sprint Retrospective, the team flags high-priority process improvements. What’s the best approach?
Add one to the Sprint Backlog
Skip improvements if things are smooth
Add one to the Product Backlog
Scrum Master picks one for the Sprint Backlog
38. Should all Increments from multiple Scrum Teams on one product be integrated each Sprint?
No—too hard, save for a hardening Sprint
Yes—but only for dependent teams
No—teams work separately
Yes—to fully inspect progress
39. How do multiple Scrum Teams select Product Backlog items from a shared backlog?
The Product Owner assigns them
Each team gets its own backlog
Teams split items equally
Developers coordinate with the Product Owner
Highest-velocity team chooses first
40. Who ensures Product Backlog items align with the Definition of Done?
The Testing Team
The Scrum Master
The Developers
The Scrum Team
The Product Owner
Professional Scrum Master I ( PSM I ) Certification FAQs
1. What is the Professional Scrum Master I (PSM I) Certification?
The Professional Scrum Master I (PSM I) Certification is an entry-level Scrum certification offered by Scrum.org that validates a candidate's understanding of Scrum principles, Scrum framework, Scrum roles, events, artifacts, and Agile practices.
2. Who should take the PSM I Certification exam?
The PSM I exam is suitable for Scrum Masters, Project Managers, Agile Coaches, Product Owners, Business Analysts, Software Developers, Team Leads, and professionals interested in Agile and Scrum methodologies.
3. Is the PSM I Certification difficult to pass?
The PSM I exam is considered moderately challenging because candidates must achieve a minimum passing score of 85%. A strong understanding of the Scrum Guide and Scrum principles is essential for success.
4. How many questions are included in the PSM I exam?
The PSM I certification exam contains 80 questions that must be completed within 60 minutes.
5. What is the passing score for the PSM I Certification?
Candidates must score at least 85% to pass the Professional Scrum Master I (PSM I) Certification exam.
6. Does the PSM I Certification expire?
No. The PSM I Certification does not have an expiration date and remains valid for life once earned.
7. What topics are covered in the PSM I exam?
The exam covers Scrum Theory, Scrum Values, Scrum Team Accountabilities, Scrum Events, Scrum Artifacts, Product Goal, Sprint Goal, Definition of Done, Empiricism, and Agile principles.
8. How should I prepare for the Professional Scrum Master I Certification?
Candidates should thoroughly study the Scrum Guide, understand Agile principles, take practice exams, review Scrum terminology, and regularly assess weak areas through mock tests and self-evaluation.
9. Are practice questions useful for PSM I exam preparation?
Yes. Practice questions help candidates understand exam patterns, improve time management, identify knowledge gaps, and gain confidence before taking the actual certification exam.
10. Can I take the PSM I exam online?
Yes. Scrum.org delivers the PSM I certification exam online, allowing candidates to complete the assessment from a suitable location with internet access.
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