PMI Agile Certified Practitioner (ACP) Practice Exam

What sequence of numbers is used for Agile estimating?

1. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8

2. 0, 1, 1, 2, 3, 5, 8, 13

3. 0, 1, 2, 3, 5, 8, 13, 20, 40, 100

4. 1, 3, 5, 10, 15, 20

The correct answer is: 0, 1, 2, 3, 5, 8, 13, 20, 40, 100

The sequence of numbers commonly used for Agile estimating is often based on the Fibonacci sequence or its variations, which is effectively captured in the correct answer. This sequence (0, 1, 2, 3, 5, 8, 13, 20, 40, 100) reflects an increasing scale that allows teams to estimate the relative size and complexity of user stories or tasks effectively. Using this ascending sequence helps teams convey differing levels of effort or uncertainty visually. The gaps between the numbers become larger as they progress, which assists in managing the increasing levels of uncertainty that arise as the work complexity increases. This is particularly beneficial because larger numbers represent tasks that are inherently more difficult to estimate with precision, allowing for a more effective focus on planning through relative estimates rather than precise time estimates. In Agile methodologies, having a sequence that emphasizes relative sizing impacts several practices, including sprint planning and prioritization. The use of this sequence encourages collaboration and consensus among team members during estimation sessions, fostering a shared understanding of the work to be accomplished.