Retrospective Checklist
Five key principles that will help you run more effective retrospectives today.
What is this workshop?
If your retrospectives are producing action items that nobody follows up on, or discussions that go in circles, this checklist is the fix. It distills five facilitation principles that consistently separate effective retros from wasted hours — covering everything from psychological safety to how you close the session.
What's included
- 5 facilitation principles
- Pre-session preparation checklist
- Mid-session facilitation reminders
- Closing protocol guide
This is for you if…
- Facilitators who want to sharpen their retros without learning a new format
- Anyone whose retros feel 'fine' but don't produce real change
- Team leads who regularly co-facilitate with someone else
How to access this template
How to run this workshop
Tips for first-time facilitators
- Read it the evening before, not five minutes before. A checklist you skim doesn't stick.
- Print it out if you can — paper is easier to glance at during a session than a phone screen.
- After the retro, score yourself honestly on each principle. That's how you improve over time.
Frequently asked questions
How do I copy this template?
Open the link, then go to File → Make a copy. The copy saves to your Google Drive. No special account needed — any free Google account works.
Can I download this as a Word document?
Yes. Go to File → Download → Microsoft Word (.docx) to get a version that works in Word or any compatible editor.
Is this checklist for every type of retrospective?
Yes. The five principles apply regardless of which retrospective format you use — Sprint retro, Timeline, Atomic Habits, or anything else.
What's the most common mistake people make in retrospectives?
Skipping the close. Most facilitators run out of time and end without confirming who owns which action item. That's why nothing changes. Always save 10 minutes to close properly.
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