A SMART goal is defined as which acronym?

• A. Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Realistic, Timely
• B. Simple, Manageable, Achievable, Reliable, Timed
• C. Strategic, Motivated, Action-oriented, Timely
• D. Systematic, Measurable, Accurate, Timeless

Answer: (A)

SMART goals focus on clarity, measurement, practicality, and a deadline. The best definition uses Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Realistic, Timely. Being Specific means the objective is detailed enough to know exactly what is to be achieved. Measurable ensures you can track progress and determine when the goal is met. Attainable keeps the goal within reach given available resources and constraints, avoiding impossible targets. Realistic (or Relevant) ties the goal to meaningful outcomes and the context, ensuring it fits with broader aims. Timely sets a clear deadline to guide action and accountability. Variants that swap terms or drop the measurable or time-bound elements lose that precision and evaluative power, which is why this wording is the standard.