CSM Scrum Master Core Competencies Practice Question
A team has been asked by the CTO to add a 'hidden' feature that isn't on the Product Backlog. What is the most appropriate action for the Scrum Master?
⚠ Common exam trap
Candidates frequently choose to quietly execute the CTO's request to avoid conflict, violating Scrum transparency and bypassing the Product Owner's authority.
Answer choices
Why each option matters
Answer the question above first, then reveal the full breakdown to understand why each option is right or wrong.
Correct answer & explanation
✓
Coach the CTO on why all work must be ordered in the Product Backlog.
The Scrum Master must protect the team from external interference and maintain the Product Backlog's transparency. By coaching the CTO on the Scrum framework, the Scrum Master ensures that all work flows through the proper channels. This is crucial for maintaining the team's focus and the integrity of the product, as 'hidden' features undermine the Product Owner's ability to prioritize effectively and manage stakeholder expectations.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✗
Ask the Developers to work on it quietly during the night.
Why it's wrong here
This is unethical and violates the Scrum principle of transparency. It also sets a terrible precedent for the team. The Scrum Master must ensure that work is visible and accounted for in the Product Backlog, not hidden in shadow projects that bypass the established Scrum processes and Product Owner oversight.
- ✓
Coach the CTO on why all work must be ordered in the Product Backlog.
Why this is correct
Educating stakeholders and leadership is a key duty of the Scrum Master. By explaining that bypassing the Product Backlog destroys transparency and prioritization, the Scrum Master protects the team and the product. This ensures that the CTO understands the value of the Scrum framework and respects the established process.
- ✗
Allow the feature if the CTO promises it will be quick.
Why it's wrong here
Promises of 'quick' work are often inaccurate and lead to scope creep that disrupts the Sprint. The Scrum Master must enforce the rules of the framework, which require work to be prioritized by the Product Owner. Accepting off-the-books work undermines the Product Owner's authority and damages the team's focus.
- ✗
Report the CTO to HR for violating the Scrum process.
Why it's wrong here
Reporting the CTO to HR is an extreme and unprofessional overreaction. The Scrum Master's role is to influence and coach, not to act as a punitive force. Building a positive, educational relationship with leadership is far more effective for long-term organizational change than using threats or administrative complaints.
About these practice questions
One of 312 original CSM practice questions on Courseiva, each with a full explanation and wrong-answer analysis — not exam dumps or protected exam content. Learn why practice questions differ from exam dumps →
JA
Written and reviewed by Johnson Ajibi, MSc IT Security
Senior Network & Security Engineer · founder of Courseiva
Last reviewed September 2026 · checked against the official Scrum Alliance exam blueprint
This CSM practice question is part of Courseiva's free Scrum Alliance certification practice question bank. Courseiva provides original exam-style practice questions with explanations, topic-based practice, mock exams, readiness tracking, and study analytics to help learners prepare for the CSM exam.