Easy Tech TutsHow to Create and Start a New Sprint in Jira Easily 2026
By Impran M N
Getting a new sprint set up correctly from the start makes the rest of the cycle run more smoothly. This guide covers creating a sprint in Jira, pulling in issues from the backlog, setting dates and a goal, and starting it.
01Open the Scrum backlog
Navigate to your project's backlog view where sprints are created and managed.
02Create a new sprint
Use the create sprint option to add a new sprint container above your backlog items.
03Add issues and set a sprint goal
Drag issues from the backlog into the new sprint, and write a short goal describing what the sprint should accomplish.
04Start the sprint
Set the sprint's start and end dates, then click Start to move the sprint into active status.
Frequently asked questions
How do I create a new sprint in Jira?
Open the backlog view and use the create sprint option to add a new sprint container above your backlog items.
How do I add issues to a newly created sprint?
Drag issues from the backlog directly into the sprint container, or use the issue's Sprint field to assign it.
Do I need to set a sprint goal before starting it?
It's best practice to set a sprint goal, though Jira technically allows you to start a sprint without one.
Can I change the sprint dates after starting it?
Sprint dates are typically set before starting, though some adjustments may still be possible depending on your workflow settings.
Watch the full walkthrough
The same steps, demonstrated on screen from start to finish.
