SMART Goals

Is this goal SMART? "I am going to be rich someday."

• Yes

• No

• Maybe

Is this goal SMART?" I will graduate with my degree on time."

• Yes

• No

• Maybe

Answer explanation

The statement calls out specific, measureable, and time-bound details. The other attributes of attainable and relevant are implied.

Is this goal SMART? "I am going to save enough money to buy a newer car by June."

• Yes

• No

• Maybe

Answer explanation

All SMART attributes are covered in this goal.

Is this goal SMART? "I would like to do well in all my courses next semester."

• Yes

• No

• Maybe

Answer explanation

While this is clearly time-bound and meets most of the SMART goal attributes, it is not specific or measurable without defining what “do well” means.

Is this goal SMART? "I am going to start being a nicer person."

• Yes

• No

• Maybe

Answer explanation

While most of the SMART attributes are implied, there is nothing really measurable in this goal.

Is this goal SMART? "I will earn at least a 3.0 GPA in all my courses next semester."

• Yes

• No

• Maybe

Answer explanation

All of the SMART attributes are present in this goal.

Is this goal SMART? "I am going to start being more organized."

• Yes

• No

• Maybe

Answer explanation

While most of the SMART attributes are implied, there is nothing really measurable in this goal.

Is this goal SMART? "I will get an A on my essay for Psychology class."

• Yes

• No

• Maybe

Answer explanation

Specific: The specific class I will target for a higher grade is my Psychology class. The specific essay is the current one that has been assigned.

Measurable: The measurement for success is an A- or above.

Attainable: I got a B- in my past essay so I believe I can increase one grade with enough effort and by using my feedback.

Relevant: The goal of getting an A in my essay is relevant to my longer-term goal of graduating from my Psychology degree.

Time-BOUND: My essay is due in 7 weeks.

Is this goal SMART? "My research skills will improve."

• Yes

• No

• Maybe

Answer explanation

Is this goal SMART? "I will study for my Math class for 1 hour."

• Yes

• No

• Maybe

Answer explanation

SMART goal:

"I will study for my math class for one hour each afternoon Monday to Friday for 5 weeks."

Specific: The goal is specifically about studying for a math class.

Measurable: I will keep a diary measuring my progress.

Attainable: I have an hour free each afternoon to complete this project.

Relevant: These 25 hours of study should help me get a better grade in my math class.

Time-Bound: The goal will be completed within 5 weeks.