Agile Metrics & Terminology

Velocity, throughput, cycle time, lead time — the terms that sound similar but mean something different, finally untangled.

Agile/Hybrid exam questions rely on precise terminology, and PMI loves testing pairs of concepts that are easy to mix up. This glossary organizes every commonly tested Agile metric and term into clear categories, with a dedicated section calling out the pairs candidates confuse most.

Inside, you'll find:

• Agile Metrics — Velocity, Burndown Charts, Burnup Charts, Cumulative Flow Diagrams, Cycle Time, Lead Time, Throughput, WIP Limits, and Escaped Defects
• Backlog & Work-Item Terminology — Epic, Feature, User Story, Task, Definition of Ready, Definition of Done, MVP, and Increment
• Estimation & Sizing Terminology — Story Points, Planning Poker, T-Shirt Sizing, Spikes, INVEST, and DEEP criteria
• Process & Delivery Terminology — Timeboxing, Servant Leadership, Progressive Elaboration, Rolling Wave Planning, and more
• Commonly Confused Pairs — Cycle Time vs. Lead Time, Velocity vs. Throughput, Epic vs. Feature, and more
• Exam Tips — how to catch the specific traps built around these terms

Works for the PMP®, PMI-ACP®, or any other PMI® certification exam that tests Agile terminology.

Independent study guide. PMP®, PMI-ACP®, CAPM®, PgMP®, and PfMP® are registered trademarks of Project Management Institute, Inc. Not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by PMI.