Backlog refinement aims to ensure readiness for the upcoming sprint by targeting a certain amount of work. Which option correctly states this target?

• A. One sprint worth
• B. Four sprints worth
• C. No target
• D. Two sprints worth

Answer: (D)

Backlog refinement centers on making items clear, estimated, and ready to be pulled into an upcoming sprint. The goal is to have enough work already refined to cover the near term, plus a buffer for changes, so planning can proceed smoothly. The target of two sprints worth of backlog ready keeps the team well-prepared for the next sprint and provides flexibility if priorities shift. If you aimed for only one sprint, you risk running short on ready work when plans change; aiming for much more than two sprints can lead to items becoming outdated before they’re planned. With no target, refinement can drift and planning becomes uncertain. So, two sprints worth of refined backlog is the practical balance that supports stable, responsive sprint planning.