In computer science, a "spike" refers to a brief, focused effort to explore a specific technical challenge or uncertainty within a project. It is often used in agile development methodologies, such as Scrum, to gain insights that help inform future work. Spikes can involve research, prototyping, or experimentation to clarify requirements or assess feasibility. Spikes are typically time-boxed, meaning they have a set duration to ensure that the team remains productive and does not get sidetracked. The results of a spike can lead to better decision-making and more accurate estimates for tasks, ultimately improving the overall development process.