Prioritization template · 1 min read

Backlog Estimation Template for Relative Sizing

Criteria

• Estimate complexity instead of time/effort.

• Compare; don’t estimate absolute values.

• Use sequences for estimation.

• Block the influences to avoid biased estimates.

• Estimate by the whole team.

Do not estimate:

• The entire backlog—only the things on top of it.

• Sub-tasks—doesn’t add relevant understanding of items.

• Repetitive items with a higher estimate.

• Unfinished items from last sprint—re-evaluate in case of big context changes.

Learn More: Historical source: blog.backlogapp.io, “How to estimate backlog items” (unavailable during browser verification on October 13, 2026; the original template content is retained).