Burn Chart

A burn chart is a simple graph that tracks work over time in an iteration or release. A burndown chart shows how much work remains, sloping down toward zero; a burnup chart shows how much is done, rising toward the total. Both make progress and pace visible at a glance.

By comparing the actual line to an ideal one, a team can see whether it is ahead or behind and forecast completion. Burn charts are a staple of agile tracking, valued for being quick to read.

Related: velocity, sprint, throughput.

Last updated: 4 July 2026 · By Tom, PMP-certified since 2004

Related Articles:

 
  • Acceptance – Definition Acceptance is the noun form of the previously defined verb “accept“. It represents the state of being in which one...
    •  
  • Project Risk Management Project Risk Management is a branch of the discipline of project management that deals with identifying and mitigating risk on...
    •  
  • Resource-constrained Schedule See resource-limited schedule This term is defined in the 3rd edition of the PMBOK but not in the 4th....
    •  
  • Sequence Activities Sequence Activities is the scheduling step where you work out the order project activities must happen in, based on the...
    •  
  • Why You Should Consider Becoming a PMI-certified Project Management Professional (PMP) The landscape of project management is continually evolving, and professionals need to stay updated to remain relevant in the industry....