(When is the Sprint Backlog created?

The correct answer is A because the Sprint Backlog is created during Sprint Planning. The Sprint Backlog is composed of the Sprint Goal, the Product Backlog items selected for the Sprint, and a plan for delivering them. During Sprint Planning, the Scrum Team collaborates to decide why the Sprint is valuable, what can be done during the Sprint, and how the chosen work will be accomplished. This is when the Sprint Backlog comes into existence.

Option B is incorrect because although Product Backlog refinement may prepare items before Sprint Planning, the Sprint Backlog itself is not created until the Sprint Planning event. Option C is incorrect because refinement supports readiness and clarity of Product Backlog items, but it does not establish the Sprint Backlog. Option D is incorrect because the Sprint Retrospective is focused on improvement of the team’s effectiveness and ways of working, not on creating the Sprint Backlog for the next Sprint.

This distinction matters in Scrum because Sprint Planning formally begins the Sprint by creating a clear commitment around the Sprint Goal and the work needed to produce a useful Increment.