Which of the following best describes a SMART goal?

A SMART goal is defined by five key criteria: Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. This framework is widely used in various fields to set clear and attainable objectives that can be tracked and assessed effectively.

Specific means that the goal should be clear and well-defined, stating exactly what is expected. Measurable indicates that there should be criteria in place to measure progress and determine when the goal has been achieved. Achievable ensures that the goal is realistic and attainable, considering available resources and constraints. Relevant signifies that the goal should matter to you or your organization and align with broader objectives. Lastly, Time-bound establishes a clear deadline or timeframe for achieving the goal, which helps in maintaining focus and motivation.

Considering the other options, while they resemble the structure of goal-setting phrases, they do not accurately describe the SMART framework. Each term in those alternatives either misrepresents the specific criteria or lacks the clarity necessary to define what constitutes a SMART goal. Using the SMART criteria helps individuals and organizations create effective goals that lead to better outcomes and increased accountability.