Easy Tech TutsHow to View the Backlog in Jira
By Impran M N
The backlog is where all the work that hasn't been scheduled into a sprint lives, and knowing how to navigate it makes sprint planning much smoother. This guide covers finding and using the backlog view in Jira.
01Open your project
Navigate to the Jira project that has the backlog you want to view.
02Select the backlog view
Find the backlog option in the project's side navigation, separate from the active sprint board.
03Review unscheduled issues
Scroll through the list of issues that haven't yet been assigned to a sprint.
04Prioritize the list
Drag and drop issues to reorder them by priority, since order in the backlog typically reflects what should be tackled first.
05Move issues into a sprint
Select issues from the backlog and add them to an upcoming sprint when you're ready to plan.
Frequently asked questions
Is the backlog only available for Scrum projects?
Backlog views are primarily a feature of Scrum-style boards; Kanban boards typically use a continuous flow view instead, though a backlog can sometimes be enabled.
Can I filter the backlog to see specific types of issues?
Yes, you can apply filters and quick filters to the backlog view to narrow it down by assignee, type, or other criteria.
How do I know which issues are highest priority in the backlog?
Priority is generally reflected by an issue's position in the list, with items higher up meant to be tackled sooner.
Can I add new issues directly from the backlog view?
Yes, most Jira backlog views let you create a new issue directly without leaving the page.
Watch the full walkthrough
The same steps, demonstrated on screen from start to finish.
