Which SMART-goal formulation is correctly stated?

• A. Specific, measurable, attainable, realistic, time-bound
• B. Specific, measurable, assessable, relatable, time-bound
• C. Special, measurable, attainable, realistic, time-bound
• D. Serious, methodical, attainable, realistic, thoughtful

Answer: (A)

SMART goals are built around five attributes that ensure a goal is clear and doable: Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Realistic, Time-bound. Specific means the goal describes exactly what is to be achieved. Measurable provides a way to track progress and know when the goal is reached. Attainable (often paired with Realistic) checks that the goal is feasible given current resources, constraints, and capabilities. Time-bound sets a clear deadline to create focus and urgency.

The option that uses these familiar terms is the best choice because it aligns with the standard SMART framework. The other options replace or introduce terms that aren’t part of the recognized five dimensions (for example, using assessable or relatable, or swapping words for Special, Serious, or thoughtful). These substitutions remove the consistency that SMART goals require, making the formulation less reliable as a planning guide.