Preparing for the CSM (Certified ScrumMaster) certification or SPC (SAFe Practice Consultant) certification can feel overwhelming at first. Both exams demand a strong understanding of Agile principles, frameworks, and practical application. But with the right approach, passing on the first attempt is completely achievable.

This guide brings together expert tips to help you feel confident and ready when exam day arrives.

Find them below!

1. Know the Exam Format Beforehand

One of the best ways to reduce stress is to understand what the exam will look like.

• CSM certification: The exam typically consists of around 50 multiple-choice questions to be completed in about 60 minutes. You usually need around 74% (approximately 37 correct answers) to pass.
• SPC certification: You need to answer 60 questions, and to do that, you have two hours in total. The exam has a 75% passing requirement (approximately 45 correct answers).

Having a clear idea of the structure helps you manage your time better and prevents surprises.

2. Study Actively, Not Passively

Reading notes or slides isn’t enough. Active learning is what sticks.

• For CSM certification, focus on the Scrum framework: roles, events, values, and rules. Try teaching these concepts to a friend or colleague, or quiz yourself with flashcards.
• For SPC certification, go beyond memorisation. Practise mapping the SAFe Big Picture to real-world scenarios. Create small case studies or examples to explain how concepts like Lean Portfolio Management or Agile Release Trains apply in practice.

The more you interact with the material, the more confident you’ll feel.

3. Take Practice Exams Seriously

Mock exams are one of the most effective preparation tools.

• For CSM certification, look for practice tests that closely match the real exam format. Simulate the one-hour limit so you get used to answering under pressure.
• For SPC certification, attempt the official practice exam. It highlights topic-wise strengths and weaknesses, helping you focus on areas that need more attention. Aim for consistently high scores in these practice runs before sitting the real exam.

4. Master Time and Question Strategy

During the exam, time management is as important as knowing the material.

• Read each question carefully. It’s easy to miss small details that change the meaning.
• Eliminate the obvious incorrect options before choosing your answer. Narrowing choices makes it easier to spot the correct one.
• If you come across a tough question, flag it and move on. Revisit it later instead of wasting precious minutes.

This keeps momentum going and prevents panic.

5. Take the Exam While Knowledge is Fresh

Don’t delay after training. For both certifications, the sooner you take the exam, the better. Ideally, aim for within 30 days. At this point, the concepts are fresh in your mind, and you’re still in the rhythm of study. The longer you wait, the more revisions you’ll need to get back into exam mode.

6. Prepare Your Environment

Since both exams are online, your setup matters.

• Choose a quiet, distraction-free space.
• Check your internet connection before you start.
• Keep water by your side and remove anything that could break your concentration.
• Get a good night’s sleep beforehand. Mental clarity makes a huge difference in decision-making.

7. Use Smart Problem-Solving Techniques

When a question seems confusing, try reframing it. For instance, in CSM certification, think about the scenario outside of software. Imagine it as building a house or running a team project. Suddenly, the answer may become clearer.

For SPC examination, rely on elimination. Often, two or three options are obviously wrong. Removing them brings you closer to the right one, even if you’re unsure at first.

8. Review Without Overthinking

If time allows, review your answers. But be careful not to overthink. Unless you spot a clear mistake, avoid changing your initial choice. In most cases, your first instinct is correct.

9. Build Support and Keep Perspective

Study groups, online forums, or even casual discussions with peers can clear up difficult topics. Sometimes explaining concepts out loud helps you understand them better.

And remember, while passing on the first attempt is the goal, it isn’t the end of the road if you don’t. Both certifications allow retakes. The important thing is that each effort strengthens your knowledge and practical understanding.

10. Stay Confident on Exam Day

Mindset is key. You’ve already done the preparation, so trust yourself. Approach each question calmly, manage your time well, and maintain focus. Small exam-day rituals, like reviewing a quick summary, keeping water nearby, or taking a few deep breaths, can help ease nerves and boost confidence.

Final Thoughts

Whether it’s the CSM certification or the SPC certification, success on the first attempt comes down to preparation, practice, and mindset. By studying actively, using practice exams, managing time effectively, and keeping a confident outlook, you’ll give yourself the best chance to earn the certification on day one.