CST Retrospective Formats & Anti-Patterns 2

Question 1

A Scrum Team consistently uses the same 'What Went Well / What Didn't' format every Sprint. What anti-pattern does this represent?

Accepted Answer

Retrospective fatigue from lack of variety

Answer

Using the same retrospective format repeatedly leads to fatigue and shallow engagement; rotating formats keeps retrospectives fresh and productive.

Question 2

Which retrospective format uses metaphorical 'winds' and 'anchors' to help a team explore what drives them forward and what holds them back?

Accepted Answer

Sailboat / Speedboat

Answer

The Sailboat (or Speedboat) retrospective uses wind as enablers and anchors as impediments, making the metaphor memorable and visual.

Question 3

During a retrospective the same two team members dominate the discussion while others stay silent. What is the Scrum Master's best facilitation response?

Accepted Answer

Use techniques like round-robin sharing or silent writing to include all voices

Answer

Techniques such as silent brainstorming, dot voting, or round-robin ensure every team member contributes and prevents groupthink.

Question 4

The '4Ls' retrospective format stands for which four elements?

Accepted Answer

Liked, Learned, Lacked, Longed For

Answer

4Ls stands for Liked, Learned, Lacked, and Longed For — a balanced format that captures positives, insights, gaps, and desires.

Question 5

A team's retrospective action items are never completed before the next retrospective. Which anti-pattern best describes this situation?

Accepted Answer

Action item graveyard

Answer

An 'action item graveyard' occurs when improvement items are generated but never followed through, eroding trust in the retrospective process.

(CST) Certified Scrum Trainer Practice Test

(CST) Certified Scrum Trainer Practice Test

CST Retrospective Formats & Anti-Patterns 2