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Language Foundation

SMART goal

A SMART goal, in which SMART stands for Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound, is a goal that is clearly defined, can be measured, is realistically attainable, matters to a broader objective, and has a set deadline.

In plain English

This term refers to a goal written in a structured way so it is precise rather than vague. Its progress can be checked, it is realistic to reach, it supports a larger objective, and it has a clear end date.

In context

In the goal-setting section, “SMART goal” names a goal as belonging to this defined type with clear scope, measurable progress, realistic attainability, relevance to a broader objective, and a deadline.

Situation
Setting goals, receiving feedback, completing reviews, and discussing performance
What it communicates
names a goal type in the goal-setting section.

Meaning limits

The term alone does not state the goal’s actual subject or wording, only that it is of this defined type.

Examples

“Rather than aiming to "save more," Maya set a SMART goal of putting £50 from each payday into her emergency fund until it reached £600 by December.”

Core meaning

“During the goal-setting section, the coach asked each trainee to rewrite one broad intention as a SMART goal.”

In context

  • goal Broader Term

    A SMART goal is a kind of goal.