When working in Agile or Scrum, user stories help define what a user wants and why. A good user story is short, simple, and easy to understand written from the perspective of the person using the product. In this blog, we’ll explore the standard user story template, how it helps teams, and why it continues to work effectively for Agile teams across the globe.
Whether you’re a newcomer to practice or preparing for certification at the best Scrum training institute in Hyderabad, such as HelloSM, this post will assist you in learning the basics of crafting excellent user stories.
What is a User Story Template?
A user story is a one-sentence sentence describing to us the user, what they want, and why they need it. The most typical user story is: “As a [user], I [want to/need to] [do something] so that [benefit or reason].” This template is also known as three-part user story template or who-what-why format. It keeps team’s user-centric and value-oriented.
Sample User Story
Let us assume we are developing a document editing software like Google Docs. Here is a small one:
“As a casual user, I want a spell checker so that I do not make spelling errors.”
Let’s deconstruct:
- Who: Casual User
- What: Needs a spell checker
- Why: To prevent spelling errors
3 Major Components of the User Story Template
Who (Role/User)
This section indicates who requires the functionality. It can be a new customer, admin, power user, or even a system that communicates with the product. Using explicit roles like “new customer” or “admin” in place of an indefinite “user” makes the story more precise.
What (Function or Requirement)
This is the action or functionality the user wants to do. It can be something they desire, require, or need to do. Alternatively to having “I want” each time, it can also be said as “I need,” “I am mandated to,” or “I must.”Example: “Being a member, I am mandated to make a strong password…”
Why (Reason or Value)
This part justifies why the user requires the feature. This section provides context and aids developers in providing better solutions. Oftentimes, this section isn’t required in case it does not provide any benefit — but nonetheless remains good practice to do so.
Why This Template Works So Well?
Easy to Understand for All Stakeholders
Even non-technical users can fill in the blanks and craft stories according to their requirements. It increases communication and collaboration.
User Focus
Since it begins with “I,” the template promotes empathy and makes the product user-focused — a fundamental Agile principle.
Facilitation of Prioritization
Through the mention of the value or reason, Product Owners can prioritize based on actual business or user needs.
Naturally Structured
It takes advantage of the natural narrative structure of Who > What > Why, so it’s more relatable — in the style of a good book or movie.
User Story Template Mistakes that are Common
“As a user…” everywhere
Don’t use broad roles such as “user.” Be more specific, such as “As a power user,” or “As a new customer.”
Being too rigid with the format
Use sense. If something doesn’t fit with the standard template, it is okay to write it differently. Templates are there to make things more understandable, not to get in the way.
Alternatives to the Standard Template
Occasionally the user story format isn’t ideal, particularly for technical things or backend activities. In those cases, teams can use: Job stories: “When ___, I want to ___, so I can ___”
Feature-driven development templates
Free-form backlog items where necessary
The user story template has been around for the long haul because it allows Agile teams to deliver a better product as it considers users and what they require. It is not the sole way to define work, but it’s probably going to be one of the most robust and natural ways to involve stakeholders and teams.
If you are studying Agile or getting certified, you have to practice with this template. HelloSM, the best Scrum training in Hyderabad and among the best training centers of India, provides hands-on training so that you can be comfortable with actual Agile tools such as user stories.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the standard user story pattern in Agile?
The standard user story template is: “As a [role], I [want/need] [something] so that [value].”
Do ‘so that’ clauses have to be in a user story?
No, but it’s very strongly advised. It provides clarity regarding the value or reason for a feature.
Can a user story ever be technical or backend-related?
Yes, but occasionally other formats (e.g., job stories or tasks) will serve the purpose better for trivial technical activity.
Why can’t I use the phrase “As a user”?
It is too vague. Be more specific to enhance understanding and comprehension.
Where do I practice writing user stories?
You can join live workshops in HelloSM, one of the best scrum training institute in Hyderabad, India to practice in real-life situations with feedback from experts.