Which statement correctly defines a SMART goal and provides a suitable example?

Which statement correctly defines a SMART goal and provides a suitable example?

• A. Simple, Manageable, Applicable, Realistic, Timed.
• B. Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound; example: complete a certification within 12 weeks.
• C. Strategic, Motivational, Ambitious, Realistic, Timely.
• D. Systematic, Measurable, Accurate, Relevant, Timely.

Answer: (A)

A SMART goal is clear, trackable, and feasible, with a deadline, and it should align with bigger aims. The key parts are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. The example “complete a certification within 12 weeks” fits well: it’s Specific (a certification), Measurable (you can verify completion), Achievable (a realistic plan to finish), Relevant (advances professional goals), and Time-bound (finishes within 12 weeks). The other options use terms that either replace essential elements or mix up the framework, so they don’t consistently meet all five criteria.

A SMART goal is clear, trackable, and feasible, with a deadline, and it should align with bigger aims. The key parts are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. The example “complete a certification within 12 weeks” fits well: it’s Specific (a certification), Measurable (you can verify completion), Achievable (a realistic plan to finish), Relevant (advances professional goals), and Time-bound (finishes within 12 weeks). The other options use terms that either replace essential elements or mix up the framework, so they don’t consistently meet all five criteria.