Burn down Charts

Guide to Burn Down Charts

What is a Burn Down Chart?
Burn Down Chart is a graphical representation of work left to do versus time. It is commonly used in Agile project management and specifically Scrum. It provides a day-by-day measure of the amount of work that remains in a given sprint or release.

How It Works
The vertical axis of the burn down chart represents the amount of work remaining, while the horizontal axis represents time. As work is completed, the line on the chart 'burns down' to zero. If the project is on schedule, the burn down chart line will run diagonally from the top left to the bottom right.

Importance of Burn Down Charts
Burn down charts are important as they provide a clear visualization of the progress of the project. They can help teams and stakeholders understand if the project is on track to finish the work by the committed time.

Exam Tips: Answering Questions on Burn Down Charts
1. Understand the Basic Concepts: Ensure that you understand the principles of burn down charts, including its axes and how the line 'burns down'.
2. Apply Practical Knowledge: Questions in an exam may not be straightforward, you may be asked to interpret an example burn down chart.
3. Understand the Value: Be prepared to answer questions on why burn down charts are helpful or important in managing projects.
4. Common Pitfalls: Understand common mistakes or misconceptions with burn down charts such as misinterpretation of the charts progress.