Which statement correctly defines SMART goals?

Which statement correctly defines SMART goals?

• A. Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic, Timed.
• B. Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Timely.
• C. Strategic, Meaningful, Attainable, Realistic, Timed.
• D. Specific, Measurable, Actionable, Relevant, Timely.

Answer: (B)

SMART goals are clearly defined objectives that guide action by including five attributes: Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Timely. Specific means you spell out exactly what you want to accomplish. Measurable provides a way to track progress so you can see when the goal is reached. Achievable ensures the goal is realistic given available resources and constraints. Relevant ties the goal to broader priorities, making sure it truly matters and contributes to bigger aims. Timely adds a deadline or time frame, creating urgency and a clear schedule for progress. Among common formulations, the version that uses Relevant and Timely fits the standard meaning of SMART best, because it emphasizes both alignment with broader objectives and a concrete deadline. Variations that substitute Realistic for Relevant or use Timed instead of Timely shift the emphasis and aren’t as consistent with the widely accepted definition.

SMART goals are clearly defined objectives that guide action by including five attributes: Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Timely. Specific means you spell out exactly what you want to accomplish. Measurable provides a way to track progress so you can see when the goal is reached. Achievable ensures the goal is realistic given available resources and constraints. Relevant ties the goal to broader priorities, making sure it truly matters and contributes to bigger aims. Timely adds a deadline or time frame, creating urgency and a clear schedule for progress.

Among common formulations, the version that uses Relevant and Timely fits the standard meaning of SMART best, because it emphasizes both alignment with broader objectives and a concrete deadline. Variations that substitute Realistic for Relevant or use Timed instead of Timely shift the emphasis and aren’t as consistent with the widely accepted definition.