Are you getting ready for the certified scrum master exam? You may find it challenging to clear it in the first attempt. You need to dig out the right preparation strategies along with the knowledge about common mistakes people make in the CSM exam and how to avoid them to beat the challenge. The current blog explores the common mistakes that people commit during exams and how to avoid them and beat the challenge of clearing the exam in the first attempt

 What is the CSM exam?

CSM exam is the test given to scum-certified professionals to test their knowledge of the scrum framework and their ability to handle complex projects. The certification you receive after the CSM exam demonstrates your profound knowledge of the scrum framework and enhances the chances of your job opportunities. This exam is conducted offline and includes 50 multiple-choice questions that need to be answered in an hour. You can give two free test attempts, but failing them will charge you $25 for each test again. It is very important to clear CSM exam in the first two attempts to gain the advantage.

Here are a few common mistakes you should avoid while taking a certified scrum master exam and ways to avoid them and increase your chances of earning the certification.

Common CSM exam mistakes

Attempting the test without proper scrum knowledge

The CSM exam is all about testing your knowledge of the scrum framework. Giving it a try without proper knowledge of principles and practices will be a failed attempt. Many people fail the exam because they just skim around the scrum roles and values without grasping the actual scrum concepts.

Attending without taking mock tests

You have two trials to take the scrum master test for free. Many people fail the exam because they attend the exam without taking the mock test that is offered by training institutes as a complementary benefit of the certification program.

Lack of time management

The CSM exam is conducted for an hour and you need to answer 50 questions on scrum practices and principles. People focus on polishing their knowledge about the framework but fail in time management, which leads to further delay and failure to answer all the questions. Lack of time management will impact your score in the  CSM exam, and you may not crack it.

Relying on experience

Over-reliance on experience is one of the common mistakes why people fail to crack the CSM exam when they are working with the scrum framework for a long period. The practice often manifests your answers as you decide it based on personal work experience rather than established scrum principals. It can lead to the misrepresenting of scrum fundamentals that can dilute the effectiveness of the scrum framework.

Not allocating time for study

Many chose to go for the CSM test immediately after completing the CSM certification course without testing their knowledge on understanding the framework. A scheduled preparation time with specific time slots and everyday revision helps you to master the scrum concepts before you score well.

How to avoid them?

Take certifications and study them . Scrum guide

Attending CSM certification is the best way to gain knowledge of the scrum framework. The trainers will teach you more about scrum guides along with the principles and practices of scrum. The certification courses give you a deep understanding of the framework and improve your chances of earning the certification through the CSM exam.

Take mock tests

Don’t appear for the CSM exam until you score 100%.in the mock tests. Attending the tests several times will give you insights about key areas of the exam that need further preparation to crack the exam on your first attempt. Your score in the mock tests will be equal to the real-time score in the CSM exam most of the time. Scoring high in the exam will increase your confidence in attending the exam.

Practice time management

Time management is equally important as gaining subject knowledge in the framework, especially when you attempt the scrum master certification exam that runs for a short time. Practice time management techniques during mock exams and your preparation schedules. Use a timer while practicing and pace yourself while answering questions. Effective time management is key to answering all the questions and scoring well in the exam.

Gain a good understanding of the scrum theoretical framework.

It is very important to gain a sound understanding of the scrum theoretical framework. You should scum guide and gain a better understanding of scum principles and practices. Get into formal scrum master certification programs to brush your knowledge on foundational concepts that you might have overlooked in your everyday application. You should revisit the scrum fundamentals regularly and align your everyday practices with the framework to learn authentic application of the framework and score well in the exam.

Conclusion

Passing a certified scrum master exam is more than gaining knowledge on scrum fundamentals. You need to give more attention to preparation and knock on the doors with a strategic approach to score well in the exam. Knowing more about the common mistakes made during the CSM exam and the effective ways to address them will help you pave a successful and smooth path to achieving CSM certification.