What does the SMART criteria stand for in goal setting?

• A. Simple, Measurable, Attainable, Realistic, Timely.
• B. Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound.
• C. Specific, Motivational, Attainable, Relevant, Timed.
• D. Specific, Measurable, Actionable, Relevant, Timeframe.

Answer: (B)

Goal setting with a clear, trackable framework hinges on five elements. The best option uses those exact terms: Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound. Specific ensures the goal is precise about what you want to accomplish. Measurable provides a way to quantify progress or completion so you can tell when you’ve arrived. Achievable keeps the target realistic, balancing ambition with feasibility so effort stays sustainable. Relevant connects the goal to your bigger objectives, making the effort worthwhile. Time-bound adds a deadline, creating a sense of urgency and a schedule for action.

Other options replace or tweak terms in ways that reduce clarity or concrete measurability. They may sound reasonable, but they don’t align with the standard five-part framework as it’s commonly taught.