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KPT (Keep, Problem, Try) retrospective template

Run a KPT retrospective (Keep, Problem, Try) free online. The Japanese-born format, with hidden cards and no sign-up.

Use this template — free, no sign-up

Opens a new board with these columns, right in your browser.

What is the KPT (Keep, Problem, Try) retrospective?

KPT, pronounced "kept", is a retrospective format widely used in Japan: Keep for what to continue, Problem for what got in the way, and Try for experiments to run next. The emphasis on Try makes improvement experimental: the team commits to trying something for a sprint, then checks in the next KPT whether it became a Keep.

The columns

  1. Keep
  2. Problem
  3. Try

When to use it

Use KPT for regular sprint retros, especially with teams that like small experiments, or as a lightweight alternative to Start, Stop, Continue.

How to run it in Peel in 5 steps

  1. Create a KPT board in Peel and share the link.
  2. Write Keep and Problem cards silently for five minutes, then reveal.
  3. Group Problems and vote on them.
  4. For the top Problems, write Try cards together: small experiments that could fix them.
  5. Pick one or two Tries as actions and review them at the next KPT: keep, adjust or drop.
Use this template — free, no sign-up

Frequently asked questions

Why is it called KPT?

From the initials of Keep, Problem and Try. It is very common in Japanese agile teams.

Is Try the same as an action?

A Try is an experiment with a check-in, not a permanent change. If it works, it becomes a Keep.

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