Professional Scrum Master I (PSM I) — the study guide

Exam Overview: Format, Time, and Passing Score

The Professional Scrum Master I (PSM I) assessment is an online, multiple-choice/multiple-select exam provided by Scrum.org. It is designed to test your understanding of the Scrum Framework as described in the Scrum Guide. You will have 60 minutes to complete 80 questions. This means you have approximately 45 seconds per question, emphasizing the need for quick, accurate responses. The passing score for the PSM I exam is 85%, which translates to correctly answering at least 68 out of 80 questions. There is no penalty for incorrect answers, so it is always better to make an educated guess than to leave a question unanswered. The exam can be taken from anywhere with an internet connection, and there are no prerequisites to attempt it, though practical experience with Scrum is highly recommended.

Question Types: Single vs. Multiple Select

The PSM I exam features two primary question types: single-answer multiple-choice and multiple-answer multiple-select. For single-answer questions, you will choose one correct option from a list of choices, typically four. Multiple-answer questions require you to select all correct options from a list, and it will explicitly state 'Select all that apply.' These questions are often more challenging as they demand a deeper understanding of the topic and careful attention to detail. Incorrectly selecting too many or too few options will result in the question being marked as incorrect. It's important to read each question carefully to identify whether it's a single or multiple-select question. Pay close attention to keywords like 'all that apply' or 'which of the following is TRUE' versus 'which of the following are TRUE'.

The Scrum Guide: Your Primary Source of Truth

The Scrum Guide is the definitive and authoritative source for all information tested on the PSM I exam. Every question on the assessment directly relates to concepts, rules, and definitions found within the Scrum Guide. There are no 'trick questions' or questions based on external frameworks or interpretations of Scrum. Your understanding of the Scrum Guide must be precise and thorough. Memorizing specific phrases and definitions is less important than understanding the underlying intent and principles. However, knowing the exact wording for key concepts can be beneficial. Focus on how Scrum roles, events, and artifacts interact and support the empirical process. Regularly re-reading the Scrum Guide, perhaps multiple times, is the most effective study strategy. Pay attention to the 'why' behind each rule and principle, not just the 'what'.

Exam Navigation and Strategy

During the exam, you will have the ability to mark questions for review. This feature is invaluable for managing your time. If you encounter a question you're unsure about, make your best guess, mark it for review, and move on. This ensures you attempt all questions within the time limit. Once you've gone through all 80 questions, you can return to your marked questions to re-evaluate them. This approach prevents you from getting stuck on a single difficult question and running out of time. Remember, the exam interface is straightforward; focus on the content, not the technology. Finally, practice is key. Utilize practice assessments to familiarize yourself with the question styles and time pressure. This will help you identify areas where your understanding is weak and refine your test-taking strategy.

The Scrum Guide: Your Primary Resource

The Scrum Guide, co-authored by Ken Schwaber and Jeff Sutherland, is the definitive source for Scrum. It is concise, intentionally incomplete to allow for adaptation, and the single most important document for your PSM I preparation. Every question on the exam ultimately traces back to the concepts and phrasing within this guide. Read it multiple times, slowly and carefully. Pay attention to the exact wording, as subtle differences can change the meaning. Understand the 'why' behind each element of Scrum, not just the 'what'.

• Official source for Scrum
• Read it repeatedly and deeply
• Focus on exact wording and 'why'

Scrum.org Open Assessments and Forums

Scrum.org provides free Open Assessments for Scrum Master, Product Owner, and Developer roles. The Scrum Open is particularly relevant for PSM I. These assessments are excellent for gauging your understanding and identifying areas where you need more study. Aim to consistently score 100% on the Scrum Open before attempting the PSM I exam. The Scrum.org forum is an invaluable community resource. Here, you can ask questions, discuss complex scenarios, and learn from experienced Scrum practitioners and even Scrum.org staff. It's a great place to clarify doubts and deepen your understanding beyond what a textbook alone can provide.

• Use Scrum Open Assessments for practice
• Aim for 100% on Scrum Open
• Engage with the Scrum.org community forum

Recommended Study Techniques

Active recall and spaced repetition are highly effective study methods. Instead of passively re-reading, try to recall information from memory. For example, after reading a section of the Scrum Guide, close it and try to explain the concepts in your own words. Spaced repetition involves reviewing material at increasing intervals to strengthen memory. Form study groups with peers. Discussing concepts, explaining them to others, and debating different interpretations can solidify your understanding and expose you to new perspectives. Teaching is one of the best ways to learn.

• Practice active recall
• Utilize spaced repetition
• Form and participate in study groups

Distinguishing Official vs. Unofficial Resources

While many excellent books, courses, and articles exist outside of Scrum.org, it's crucial to understand their role. Unofficial resources can provide valuable context, examples, and different perspectives, but they should always be cross-referenced with the Scrum Guide. The PSM I exam tests your understanding of Scrum as defined by Scrum.org. Be wary of materials that deviate significantly from the Scrum Guide or introduce concepts not found within it as 'official Scrum'. Stick to the core principles and definitions. If an unofficial resource contradicts the Scrum Guide, trust the Guide.

• Prioritize the Scrum Guide
• Use unofficial resources for context, not primary definitions
• Verify all information against the Scrum Guide

Practice, Practice, Practice

Beyond the Scrum Open, consider other reputable practice exams, but always be critical of their accuracy. Some practice tests may contain outdated information or questions that don't align with the Scrum.org philosophy. Focus on understanding the reasoning behind the correct answers, not just memorizing the answer itself. Time management is also key. The PSM I exam has a strict time limit. Practicing under timed conditions will help you develop the pace needed to answer all questions effectively. Don't rush, but don't dwell too long on a single question.

• Use reputable practice exams
• Understand reasoning, not just answers
• Practice under timed conditions