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Setting SMART Goals

Faculties: AC, AMP, AR, BI, BW, D, EFI, IN, MB/VS, SOH, SW, VT, WT

The SMART method is a proven technique for defining clear and achievable goals. It helps increase your motivation and allows you to recognize your success once you have achieved your goals.

Contents

Every person has goals. Often we set something for ourselves but then do not manage to follow through with the goal until the end. This is not because the goal is unattainable, but because of the way we formulate it. The criteria of the SMART method help to define goals clearly.

What is the SMART method?

The SMART method includes five components that you must consider when formulating goals. The word SMART in this case does not only mean clever, but stands for specific, measurable, attractive, realistic, and time-bound. These are the criteria with which you can define your goals so that you can actually achieve them.

How does the SMART method work?

Formulate your goals using the SMART criteria:

  • Specific (meaning concrete): Make sure the wording is clear and unambiguous. Also formulate your goal in such a way that it depends only on you to achieve it.
  • Measurable: Quantify your goal, e.g. in pages or hours. Ask yourself: “How will I know that I have achieved my goal?”
  • Attractive: Your goal should be so attractive and meaningful to you that it is truly worth investing time and energy in it.
  • Realistic: Formulate your goal so that it is a challenge for you but still remains achievable.
  • Time-bound: When formulating your goal, make sure to set a clear deadline by which the goal should be achieved. Sometimes it also makes sense to define when you will start working towards the goal.

Formulation examples

Example 1:

  • Wrong: I want to read more.
  • Right: Starting today, I will read at least 10 pages in a book every day.

Example 2:

  • Wrong: I want to do more sports.
  • Right: Starting tomorrow, I will go jogging for half an hour every Saturday.

Example 3:

  • Wrong: I want to do research on my topic.
  • Right: By today at 6:00 p.m., I want to find at least five relevant sources on my topic – then I can take tomorrow off!

Frequently asked questions

Why is it helpful to set goals using the SMART method?

The SMART method helps you develop realistic and clearly defined goals. This increases the chances of success and boosts motivation.

Why is it important to define realistic goals?

Realistic goals are important so that they are achievable and do not seem overwhelming. This increases the likelihood that you will stay motivated and successfully reach the goal.

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This article was published in September 2025 and last updated in November 2024.

Faculties: AC, AMP, AR, BI, BW, D, EFI, IN, MB/VS, SOH, SW, VT, WT

Contributors: Marcus Fiebig, Maria Noll, Schreibzentrum, Dzifa Vode

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