CSM Scrum Events Practice Question
If the Sprint Retrospective runs over its timebox, what should the Scrum Master do?
⚠ Common exam trap
Candidates often assume Scrum events can run over time if discussions are productive, violating the strict adherence to timeboxes mandated by the Scrum framework.
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
✓
Terminate the event, and discuss the remaining topics in a separate session.
Scrum events are timeboxed to ensure they remain productive and focused. When a timebox is exceeded, the event must conclude. The Scrum Master must ensure the team understands the value of timeboxing, and if the discussion is unfinished, it can be scheduled for a separate, dedicated session. This maintains the discipline and respect for the team's time that is essential for sustainable development.
Answer analysis
Option-by-option breakdown
For each option: why learners choose it and why it is or isn't the right answer here.
- ✗
Allow the meeting to continue until all items are fully resolved.
Why it's wrong here
Allowing the meeting to exceed its timebox sets a bad precedent and shows a lack of discipline. It drains the team's energy and sends the message that the schedule doesn't matter. The team needs to learn how to prioritize their discussion topics to fit within the allotted time.
- ✗
Force the team to stay late until the Retrospective is finished.
Why it's wrong here
Forcing the team to stay late is poor management and unsustainable. It creates resentment and damages morale, which is exactly the opposite of what a Retrospective aims to achieve. The Scrum Master should respect the team's work-life balance and handle unfinished discussions by scheduling a follow-up session.
- ✓
Terminate the event, and discuss the remaining topics in a separate session.
Why this is correct
Terminating the event ensures the timebox is respected, which is a core Scrum principle. By moving unfinished topics to a separate, optional session, the Scrum Master maintains the integrity of the Retrospective event while still providing the space to address the remaining issues without disrupting the team's flow.
- ✗
Ask the team to vote on whether they want to extend the meeting.
Why it's wrong here
Voting to extend the meeting is an attempt to bypass the timebox constraint. The timebox is there for a reason: to prevent unproductive meetings. The Scrum Master should coach the team on how to facilitate the Retrospective better next time, rather than just extending the session indefinitely.
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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.