What does the acronym "SMART" stand for in goal-setting?

The correct interpretation of the acronym "SMART" in goal-setting is that it refers to goals that are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. This framework is designed to help individuals and organizations define clear, actionable objectives that can lead to successful outcomes.

Specific means that the goal should clearly articulate what is to be achieved, avoiding vague language. Measurable indicates that progress can be tracked with quantifiable criteria, which helps determine success. Achievable signifies that the goal should be realistic and attainable, considering available resources and constraints. Relevant emphasizes the importance of aligning the goal with broader objectives, ensuring it is meaningful and significant to the individual or organization. Finally, Time-bound stresses the necessity of having a deadline or time frame within which the goal should be accomplished, which creates a sense of urgency and motivates action.

This structured approach fosters better planning and prioritization, making it easier to assess and adjust strategies as needed. The other options present variations of the acronym but do not align accurately with the widely recognized SMART goal principles.