APMG Agile Foundation Practice Exam 2026 – Your All-in-One Guide to Exam Success!

A "spike" in Agile methodologies refers to a time-boxed period dedicated to researching or addressing specific issues that may be too complex or uncertain to estimate using regular methods. The purpose of a spike is to gather knowledge or explore alternatives, allowing the team to reduce risks, understand requirements better, or break down tasks into smaller, manageable pieces. This focused effort enables teams to clarify uncertainties and make informed decisions without the pressure of regular sprint deliverables.

By allowing teams to take a step back and conduct targeted research or experimentation, spikes can lead to more accurate estimates and improved planning for future work. Generally, spikes are employed when there is a high degree of ambiguity related to the work, whether it be technical challenges, requirements, or potential solutions.