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Exam Information
Official specifications published by Scrum Alliance
Exam Format
60 min
74% (37 of 50 questions)
Foundational
Registration
Varies by trainer (typically $500-$2000)
Online through Scrum Alliance platform
English, Spanish, Portuguese, German +3 more
Validity
2 years
Earn 20 Scrum Education Units (SEUs); Pay $100 renewal fee; Complete before expiration date
CSM Exam Topics and Domains
CSM is organized into 5 weighted domains.
1
Scrum Theory and Values
20%
Empirical Process Control
Three Pillars of EmpiricismLean Thinking
- Understand the empirical process control theory
- Apply transparency, inspection, and adaptation in Scrum
- Recognize lean thinking principles in Scrum
Scrum Values
Five Scrum Values
- Understand how Scrum values relate to Scrum artifacts, events, and roles
- Apply Scrum values in team interactions
- Recognize when values are being compromised
Agile Principles
Agile ManifestoFramework vs Methodology
- Understand the Agile Manifesto and its 12 principles
- Differentiate between framework and methodology
- Apply Agile principles in Scrum implementation
2
Scrum Team and Accountabilities
25%
Scrum Team Composition
Team Structure
- Understand the structure and size of Scrum teams
- Recognize the importance of cross-functional teams
- Apply self-management principles
Product Owner
Product Owner ResponsibilitiesProduct Backlog Management
- Understand Product Owner accountabilities
- Know how Product Owner maximizes value
- Recognize Product Owner's relationship with stakeholders
Scrum Master
Scrum Master ServiceScrum Master and Organization
- Understand Scrum Master accountabilities
- Know how Scrum Master serves Product Owner, Developers, and organization
- Apply servant leadership principles
Developers
Developer Accountabilities
- Understand Developer accountabilities
- Know how Developers create value
- Recognize Developer self-management
3
Scrum Events
25%
The Sprint
Sprint Characteristics
- Understand Sprint as container for other events
- Know Sprint rules and boundaries
- Apply Sprint consistency principles
Sprint Planning
Sprint Planning Topics
- Understand Sprint Planning purpose and outcomes
- Know how to create Sprint Goal
- Apply Sprint Planning techniques
Daily Scrum
Daily Scrum Purpose
- Understand Daily Scrum purpose
- Know Daily Scrum structure and timing
- Apply Daily Scrum for inspection and adaptation
Sprint Review
Sprint Review Activities
- Understand Sprint Review purpose
- Know how to engage stakeholders
- Apply feedback to Product Backlog
Sprint Retrospective
Retrospective Focus
- Understand Sprint Retrospective purpose
- Know how to identify improvements
- Apply continuous improvement principles
4
Scrum Artifacts and Commitments
20%
Product Backlog
Product Backlog Management
- Understand Product Backlog as single source of requirements
- Know Product Goal as commitment
- Apply Product Backlog management techniques
Sprint Backlog
Sprint Backlog Components
- Understand Sprint Backlog composition
- Know Sprint Goal as commitment
- Apply Sprint Backlog management
Increment
Increment and Definition of Done
- Understand Increment as concrete progress
- Know Definition of Done as quality standard
- Apply Definition of Done consistently
5
Scaling and Implementing Scrum
10%
Scrum Adoption
Organizational Change
- Understand Scrum adoption approaches
- Recognize organizational impediments
- Apply change management principles
Scaling Scrum
Multiple Team Coordination
- Understand scaling challenges
- Know coordination techniques
- Apply scaling patterns
How do I earn this certification?
Passing CSM earns the Certified ScrumMaster certification. It sits in the Scrum Master track.
Current Level Exams
- CSPO - Certified Scrum Product Owner
- CSD - Certified Scrum Developer
Next Level Options
- A-CSM - Advanced Certified ScrumMaster
- CSP-SM - Certified Scrum Professional - ScrumMaster
Alternative Paths
- PSM I - Professional Scrum Master IAlternative Scrum Master certification from Scrum.org
- PMI-ACP - PMI Agile Certified PractitionerBroader Agile certification covering multiple frameworks
- SAFe-SSM - SAFe Scrum MasterEnterprise-level Scrum certification
- ICAgile-ICP - ICAgile Certified Professional Agile fundamentals certification
Practice with Precision
The PlanetCert Simulator mirrors the real exam environment with authentic questions and timed pressure.
How to study for this exam?
The most effective way to prepare for CSM is by using the PlanetCert Simulator to practice questions and review detailed explanations.
What's changed on this exam?
Current Status
- ACTIVE
- Last content update: 2022-01-01
Updates
- Jira Latest Tool knowledge helpful but not tested • Release date: Ongoing
- Azure DevOps Latest Tool knowledge helpful but not tested • Release date: Ongoing
Who should take this exam?
Complete 16-hour CSM course from a Certified Scrum Trainer (CST)
Course completion within last 90 days
- Basic understanding of software development
- Experience working in teams
- Familiarity with project management concepts