Keep/Drop/Start
In this classic retrospective format, participants must reflect on what to keep (keep), what to stop doing (drop) and what to start doing (start) for the next sprint.
Use this templateThe Keep/Drop/Start format is one of the most widely used retrospective formats in agile teams. Simple to set up and easy to understand, it invites each participant to reflect on three key questions:
- Keep: What practices, habits, or actions worked well during the sprint and should be maintained?
- Drop: What should we stop doing because it slows us down, creates frustration, or doesn't bring value?
- Start: What new ideas or practices should we begin implementing to improve our way of working?
This format is particularly effective because it provides a balanced view between positive reinforcement and constructive criticism. It encourages participants to not only identify problems but also recognize what's already working well.
At the end of the reflection, the team votes on the most important topics and collaboratively defines concrete actions for the next sprint.
Columns
Keep
What to keep.
Drop
What to stop doin.
Start
What to start.
Actions
The actions retained.
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