I’m excited to share some valuable tips that helped me successfully navigate the PSM I certification recently. If you're looking to achieve this certification in 2024, these strategies can significantly enhance your preparation and boost your confidence.
- Master the Scrum Guide
First and foremost, you must thoroughly study the Scrum Guide. It's not enough to memorize definitions; you need to truly understand the concepts. This understanding will empower you to articulate any definition in your own words and explain any actions taken in Scrum.
For easy access, here’s the link to the latest Scrum Guide: Scrum Guide 2020.
- Complete the Scrum Open Assessment
I highly recommend taking the Scrum Open Assessment until you consistently score between 95-100%. This assessment consists of 30 questions, with some variations each time you take it. It's a great way to familiarize yourself with the exam format and reinforce your knowledge.
You can find it here: Scrum Open Assessment.
- Explore the Product Owner Open Assessment
Additionally, I suggest studying and completing the Product Owner Open Assessment until you reach a score of 95-100%. This will deepen your understanding of the Product Owner role within Scrum and provide you with more insights for the exam.
Check it out at: Product Owner Open Assessment.
- Invest in a Mock Exam
For around $15, consider purchasing a mock PSM I exam from MPlaza. This practice exam closely simulates the actual testing conditions, including a timer. It will challenge you to answer based on your understanding of Scrum.
You can find it here: MPlaza Mock Exam.
Insights for the PSM I Certification 2024
a) During my exam, I noticed that approximately 15-20% of the questions were identical to those from the Scrum Open Assessment, and a few questions were directly from the Product Owner Open Assessment. Therefore, it’s crucial to excel at these assessments before taking the certification exam. The remaining 80% of the questions were different, but if you truly understand Scrum rather than simply memorizing the guide, you will find them manageable.
b) You will have 60 minutes to answer 80 questions, so pay careful attention as you read and answer each question. If you're unsure about a particular question, mark it and return to it if time permits.
c) Before the exam, ensure your workspace is quiet and free from distractions. A stable internet connection and a fully charged laptop are essential for a smooth testing experience. While I didn't encounter any identical questions from MPlaza, I still recommend it as a tool for gauging your understanding of Scrum and simulating the actual testing conditions.
d) Keep in mind that the PSM 1 exam fee in 2024 is $200, so passing on your first attempt is crucial. If you follow the first four steps, you’ll be well-prepared to tackle the exam with confidence.
e) There are plenty of additional resources available, like Quizlet and other bloggers, but my advice is to be cautious. Many of these may reference outdated information from the 2017 Scrum Guide, which may not align with the latest version. Additionally, some free resources may contain incorrect answers or irrelevant content.
f) As a final tip, I finished my exam with about 5-10 minutes to spare, which I used to double-check any questions I was unsure about. Given the time constraints, I don't recommend Googling questions during the exam, as you may run out of time to complete all of them. Once your time is up, you will immediately receive your results and certification!
Good luck on your journey to obtaining the PSM I certification in 2024-2025! With the right preparation and mindset, you can achieve your goal.