The Professional Scrum Master I (PSM I) exam, offered by Scrum.org, is one of the most respected and recognized certifications for aspiring Scrum Masters. Whether you're preparing to take the PSM I or just exploring your certification options, understanding what to expect in the PSM exam can give you a strategic edge.

In this blog, we’ll cover the exam format, question types, difficulty level, and smart preparation tips to help you confidently pass the PSM I exam on your first attempt.

🎯 Why Choose PSM I?

Before we dive into the details, here’s why the PSM I certification stands out:

• Globally recognized by Scrum.org

• Lifetime certification - no renewal required

• Vendor-neutral and tool-independent

• Backed by the official Scrum Guide

👉 Ideal for aspiring Scrum Masters, Agile enthusiasts, and even experienced project managers transitioning to Scrum.

📝 PSM I Exam Format Overview

🧠 What Kind of Questions Appear on the PSM I Exam?

The exam is scenario-based and conceptual, focusing heavily on how well you understand and apply the Scrum framework from the official Scrum Guide.

✅ Common Question Types:

• Multiple-choice (single answer)

• Multiple-answer (select all that apply)

• True or False

✅ Question Topics Include:

• Scrum roles: Scrum Master, Product Owner, Developers

• Scrum events: Sprint, Daily Scrum, Review, Retrospective

• Scrum artifacts: Product Backlog, Sprint Backlog, Increment

• Scrum values and principles

• Servant leadership and facilitation

• Sprint planning, backlog refinement, and stakeholder communication

• Agile vs Scrum understanding

• Empirical process control and transparency

💡 Pro Tip: Many questions test your ability to apply the Scrum framework in real-world team situations, so rote memorization won't help.

📊 Difficulty Level of the PSM I Exam

The PSM I exam is considered moderately challenging, especially for first-time test-takers unfamiliar with Agile terminology or real-world Scrum practices.

🚧 Common Challenges:

• Time pressure: 80 questions in 60 minutes = 45 seconds/question

• Tricky wording: Questions may have two or more “correct-sounding” options

• Application-based: You must choose what works according to the Scrum Guide, not what works in your organization

• Multiple-correct questions: Missing even one part of a multi-select question = no points

🧪 Sample Questions to Expect

Here are a few examples to give you a feel for the test:

Q1. Who is responsible for ensuring Scrum is understood and enacted?
A. The Product Owner
B. The Scrum Master
C. The Developers
D. The Project Manager

Q2. Which of the following are valid Scrum Artifacts? (Select all that apply)
A. Product Backlog
B. Sprint Backlog
C. Increment
D. Task Board

Q3. The purpose of the Sprint is to...
A. Deliver a complete set of features
B. Finish all stories assigned by the manager
C. Create a usable and potentially releasable increment
D. Finalize the product documentation

📚 How to Prepare Effectively

✅ 1. Read the Scrum Guide (Multiple Times)

It's the only official source. Know it inside out.

📘Download the latest Scrum Guide

✅ 2. Practice with Open Assessments

Scrum.org offers free practice tests. Aim for 100% before scheduling your exam.

👉 Try the Scrum Open Assessment

✅ 3. Take Mock Exams

Use high-quality mock tests that simulate real exam conditions (timed, varied difficulty, multi-select).

🔗 Access our PSM I Mock Tests and Bootcamp Resources

✅ 4. Join Study Groups or Bootcamps

Learning with peers can help clarify doubts and expose you to diverse Scrum scenarios.

✅ 5. Focus on Real-World Application

Think like a Scrum Master: prioritize servant leadership, team empowerment, and Agile values over process control.

🏆 Benefits of Passing the PSM I Exam

• Adds credibility to your resume

• Demonstrates strong foundational Agile knowledge

• Opens doors to Scrum Master, Agile Coach, and team facilitator roles

• Boosts your salary potential (average Scrum Master salary in 2025 is ₹12–20 LPA in India)

🔗 Related Reads to Help You Succeed

• Top 30 Scrum Master Interview Questions

• How to Prepare for PSM I in 2 Weeks

• CSM vs PSM – Which One Should You Choose?

📌 Final Thoughts

The PSM I exam is a great way to validate your Scrum knowledge and demonstrate your commitment to Agile practices. While the exam is challenging, it’s completely achievable with the right preparation and mindset.

🔥 Focus on understanding Scrum principles - not just memorizing them. Think like a facilitator, not a manager.

Ready to become a certified Scrum Master?
👉 Join our Professional Scrum Master Training & Certification Program with mock tests, study guides, and real-time support.