PSM exam-day guide
PSM · Prepare for the day ahead.
Your checklist
Government-issued photo ID
Bring the original, unexpired ID whose name matches your registration exactly. If your registration name differs even slightly (middle name, hyphenation), contact the provider before test day to correct it - do not assume a correction can be made at check-in.
Confirm test format and delivery method
PSM I is delivered as a timed, closed-book, online-proctored multiple-choice exam, but confirm the current format, question count, time limit, and passing threshold with Scrum.org or your authorized provider before test day, since policies can change.
Stable internet connection and a backup plan
If testing online, run the proctoring system's equipment/connection check on the same machine and network you will use on test day. Have a phone hotspot or alternate device ready in case your primary connection fails.
Quiet, private, well-lit room
Clear your desk of papers, notes, phones, and second screens. Proctoring software often requires a 360-degree room scan and a clear desk surface. Close the door and tell household members not to interrupt.
Working webcam and microphone
Test both before the exam. Proctors use them for identity verification and monitoring; a failed camera or mic can delay or void your session.
Install and update the required browser or proctoring client
Do this at least 24 hours ahead, not minutes before the exam. Confirm with the provider which browser or lockdown client is required and whether administrative rights are needed to install it.
Log-in credentials and registration confirmation
Have your account username, password, and the confirmation email with your exam link or access code ready. Store them somewhere you can reach without leaving the testing area.
Water in a clear container (check rules first)
Some proctoring services allow a clear glass or bottle; others prohibit all drinks. Confirm the specific rule with your provider so you are not flagged for a policy violation.
Scratch paper and pen - only if explicitly permitted
Many online-proctored exams forbid notes and scratch paper, or require you to show and then destroy them on camera. Do not bring them unless the provider's instructions say they are allowed.
Plan your timing strategy in advance
Know the total time and number of questions so you can budget roughly equal time per question, leaving a buffer to review flagged items. Write your target pace on a sticky note you can see.
Confirm start time and time zone
Double-check whether your appointment time is in your local zone or the provider's zone, and note any check-in window that opens before the exam. Set two alarms.
Backup contact for the provider's support line
Save the support phone number or chat link in case of a technical failure during check-in or the exam. needs_review: confirm the current support channel and hours with Scrum.org or your provider.
Plan the day
Re-read the Scrum Guide (the definitive source for PSM) end to end, then review your notes on the three accountabilities, five events, three artifacts, and their commitments. Practice with timed question sets to build pace, and review every wrong answer to understand the underlying principle rather than memorizing wording. Stop introducing brand-new material in the last 24 hours.
Run the full equipment and connection check on your exam machine. Install or update the proctoring client, test webcam, mic, and screen share, and confirm your login works. Clear and set up your testing room. Confirm your appointment time and time zone. Get a normal night's sleep rather than cramming.
Eat a normal meal and hydrate. Avoid starting new study topics; a brief skim of your own summary notes is enough. Close unnecessary applications and browser tabs, silence your phone and put it out of reach, and log in early to allow time for identity verification and the room scan.
Read each question fully and watch for qualifiers like 'best', 'most likely', or 'first'. Answer in the spirit of the Scrum Guide and empirical Scrum rather than your own workplace practice. Flag uncertain questions and move on; return to them after answering the rest. Keep an eye on the clock so you leave time to review flagged items, and do not panic if a question seems ambiguous - pick the answer most consistent with Scrum theory.
Note your result and, if you did not pass, record which topic areas felt weakest while it is fresh. Confirm with the provider the retake policy, waiting period, and any fee before scheduling again.
Rules to check
Bring original, valid government-issued photo ID with a name matching your registration; confirm accepted ID types with the provider in advance.
The exam is closed-book. Do not use notes, search engines, AI tools, messaging apps, or any other assistance unless the provider explicitly permits it.
Stay in view of the camera for the entire session if testing online; leaving the frame, talking to others, or having another person in the room can invalidate your result.
Do not communicate with anyone during the exam. If you hit a technical problem, contact the proctor or provider support through the approved channel rather than troubleshooting silently.
Follow the provider's rules on breaks, drinks, and scratch paper exactly; if you are unsure whether something is allowed, assume it is not and confirm with the provider beforehand.
The exam is timed; unanswered questions may be scored as incorrect, so confirm the provider's policy on guessing versus leaving blanks and manage your clock accordingly.
Scoring and the passing threshold are set by Scrum.org; confirm the current pass mark, question count, and result timeline with the provider rather than relying on secondhand claims.
If you experience a technical failure, document it (screenshot, timestamp) and contact provider support promptly; do not attempt to restart the exam on your own without guidance.