Guide: Understanding the Scrum Backlog

What is Scrum Backlog?
In Scrum, the 'backlog' refers to a prioritized list of tasks that need to be accomplished. It essentially serves as a roadmap for the project, guiding the Scrum team in terms of what needs to be worked on and when.

Why is the Scrum Backlog important?
The backlog plays an important role in the Scrum methodology. It outlines the work that the team needs to complete in current as well as upcoming sprints, thereby serving as the single source of requirements for a product or project. It helps prevent any ambiguity or confusion about the tasks, who is responsible for them, or when they need to be accomplished.

How does the Scrum Backlog work?
The backlog is maintained and prioritized by the product owner, and includes a list of features, bug fixes, technical work, and other tasks that the team needs to execute for successful project completion. The backlog items are usually written in the format of user stories for better comprehension. During each sprint planning session, the team selects items from the backlog to develop during the next sprint period.

Exam Tips: Answering Questions on Scrum Backlog
When answering exam questions on the Scrum backlog, it's important to remember and effectively communicate the following points:
- The backlog is the list of all tasks which need to be done.
- The product owner prioritizes the backlog.
- The team selects their tasks for the sprint from the top of the backlog.
- The backlog can be updated as new information comes to light.
- The format of user stories often includes descriptions and criteria.

If a question asks you to explain the concept of a backlog, be sure to speak about its function in the Scrum framework, its purpose, and how it is used by team members. If a question asks about maintenance of a backlog or how items are selected during sprint planning, talk about the product owner's role and how the team collectively decides what to do during each sprint.