Scrum certifications remain popular in 2026 because many teams use agile ways of working to deliver products faster, improve collaboration, and respond to change. Two common beginner Scrum certifications are PSM I from Scrum.org and CSM from Scrum Alliance.
Both certifications help learners understand Scrum, but they are not the same. PSM I is assessment-focused and can be taken directly through Scrum.org. CSM requires completing a Scrum exam prep Alliance-approved course before taking the test. Scrum lists PSM I as 80 questions, 60 minutes, and an 85% passing score, while Scrum Alliance says CSM has 50 multiple-choice questions and candidates must answer 37 correctly to pass.
Start With the Scrum Guide
Your first study resource should be the official Scrum Guide. The current official version was released in November 2020, and it defines Scrum, including its accountabilities, events, artifacts, and rules.
Read it more than once. Scrum exams often test small wording differences, so beginners should understand the meaning behind terms like Product Goal, Sprint Goal, Definition of Done, Product Backlog, Sprint Backlog, Increment, Scrum Master, Product Owner, and Developers. This foundation also makes Scrum exam preparation easier when reviewing practice questions and real team scenarios.
PSM vs CSM Quick Comparison
| Area | PSM I | CSM |
|---|---|---|
| Provider | Scrum.org | Scrum Alliance |
| Exam format | 80 questions, 60 minutes | 50 multiple-choice questions |
| Passing score | 85% | 37 out of 50 |
| Course required | Not required | Required approved course |
| Best for | Self-study learners | Learners who want instructor-led training |
| Main focus | Scrum understanding and application | Scrum framework and team application |
What to Study for PSM I
PSM I tests your understanding of Scrum and how it applies in real situations. It is not only about memorizing definitions. You need to understand why Scrum events exist, how accountabilities work, and how teams inspect and adapt.
Focus on:
- Scrum values
- Scrum accountabilities
- Scrum events
- Scrum artifacts
- Commitments
- Empiricism
- Self-management
- Product Goal and Sprint Goal
- Definition of Done
- Scrum Master responsibilities
Since PSM I has a high passing score, practice carefully. Read each question slowly, as small wording changes can alter the correct answer.
What to Study for CSM
CSM is usually more beginner-friendly because it includes required training from a Scrum Alliance-approved instructor. Scrum Alliance explains that CSM helps learners understand the Scrum framework, team accountabilities, events, artifacts, and how to guide teams in applying Scrum.
Study topics include:
- Scrum basics
- Scrum team responsibilities
- Sprint planning
- Daily Scrum
- Sprint Review
- Sprint Retrospective
- Product Backlog
- Servant leadership
- Agile mindset
- Team collaboration
The CSM exam is shorter than PSM I, but you should still prepare seriously. The training is helpful, but review and practice are still essential.
Build a Simple 4-Week Scrum Study Plan
A short study plan can help beginners stay focused.
In week one, read the Scrum Guide and learn basic Scrum terms. In week two, study accountabilities, events, artifacts, and commitments. In week three, compare real scenarios with Scrum rules. In week four, practice questions, review mistakes, and revise weak topics.
If you are preparing for CSM, attend your required course first, then use your course notes for review. If you are preparing for PSM I, spend more time on self-study and practice exams.
Practice With Scenario-Based Questions
Scrum exam questions often describe team situations. For example, a Product Owner may be unavailable, Developers may skip the Daily Scrum, or stakeholders may request changes during a Sprint.
Do not answer only from personal workplace habits. Answer from Scrum principles. Ask yourself:
- What does the Scrum Guide say?
- Which accountability owns this decision?
- Which event creates inspection and adaptation?
- Does this support transparency?
- Does this protect self-management?
During final review, candidates can use certempire.com once to practice exam-style questions after studying the Scrum Guide and official learning materials.
The Scrum PSPO-I exam concept is explained in greater depth in a YouTube video shared by Cert Empire.
Common Mistakes Beginners Make
Many beginners treat Scrum as a set of meeting names. That is a mistake. Scrum is a lightweight framework built on empiricism, transparency, inspection, and adaptation.
Another mistake is confusing project manager duties with Scrum Master responsibilities. Scrum Masters do not command the team. They coach, remove impediments, support Scrum understanding, and help the organization use Scrum effectively.
Beginners also skip the Scrum values. Commitment, focus, openness, respect, and courage are important because Scrum questions often test behavior, not only definitions.
Exam-Day Tips
For PSM I, manage time carefully because 80 questions in 60 minutes can feel fast. Do not spend too long on one question. Mark difficult ones mentally and return if time allows.
For CSM, review your course material before the test. Since the course is required, your instructor’s examples can help connect Scrum theory with practical team situations.
For both exams, stay calm and avoid overthinking. Most questions reward clear understanding of the Scrum Guide and basic Scrum behavior.
Closing Remarks
PSM and CSM are both useful Scrum certifications for beginners. PSM I is better for learners who prefer self-study and want a strong assessment-based credential. CSM is better for learners who want instructor-led training and a guided path.
To prepare successfully in 2026, start with the Scrum Guide, understand Scrum roles and events clearly, practice scenario questions, and review mistakes carefully. A simple study plan and steady practice can make both exams much easier.
Visit Cert Empire’s X (Twitter) post for a short visual insight.
FAQs
Is PSM harder than CSM?
PSM I may feel harder because it has more questions, a higher passing score, and no required course. CSM is usually more guided through instructor-led training.
Can I take PSM without training?
Yes, Scrum.org does not require a course before PSM I. Candidates can self-study, read the Scrum Guide, practice questions, and take the assessment directly.
Is CSM good for beginners?
Yes, CSM is good for beginners because the required course explains Scrum concepts, team accountabilities, events, artifacts, agile mindset, and real workplace application.
What should I study first for Scrum exams?
Start with the official Scrum Guide. Then study accountabilities, events, artifacts, commitments, Scrum values, empiricism, Product Goal, Sprint Goal, and Definition of Done.
Which Scrum certification should I choose in 2026?
Choose PSM I if you prefer self-study and assessment-based validation. Choose CSM if you want structured training, instructor guidance, and Scrum Alliance certification.
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