Scope and Quality · tool 6 of 9

Scope Statement

Scope Statement: draws the line between what’s in the project and what isn’t.

Best for: After the charter · Time: 2–3 hours
Domain: Scope · Focus area: Planning

How it works

The scope statement describes the deliverables, acceptance criteria, exclusions, assumptions and constraints. Exclusions usually prevent more arguments than anything else on the page.

• State what’s out as clearly as what’s in.
• Write acceptance criteria for each deliverable.
• List assumptions, so that they can be challenged.

How to apply it

1. Start from the charter.
2. List deliverables and how each will be accepted.
3. Add an explicit “not included” section.
4. Have the sponsor approve it.

Use it

• Playbook: Scope keeps growing

Last reviewed 2026-11-02 against the PMBOK® Guide, 8th edition · Practitioner review pending · How this guide is made