HOW 'SMART' GOALS CAN ASSIST YOU IN YOUR STUDIES
Study needs structure, whether it’s goal setting, time allocation or topic planning. One of the best ways to assist in your study is to set yourself what are known as S.M.A.R.T goals.
These are designed to help you identify if what you would like to achieve is realistic and can assist with deadline setting too.
SPECIFIC
When setting goals, they should be clear and specific, otherwise you’ll find staying focused a challenge. When planning your goals, try to answer the following ‘W’ questions:
What do I want to accomplish?
Why is my goal important?
Who is involved?
Where is it located?
Which resources or limits are involved?
MEASURABLE
Having goals is an important first step, but even more important is being able to measure and know if you have achieved these goals. This will help you stay focussed, track progress and meet your deadlines.
Examples may be:
- When will it need to be accomplished
- How many are needed?
ACHIEVABLE
Once you’ve set a goal and determined the measurability of it, you’ll need to ascertain whether it is achievable or not. A goal can be incredibly challenging, but still achievable.
An achievable goal will need to answer questions such as:
- How can I accomplish this goal?
- What do I need to accomplish this goal?
- How realistic is this goal?
REALISTIC
This step is all about ensuring your goal is realistic - or relevant - to you. Are you able to achieve this goal? While we all need support in achieving goals, it is important that you are in control of the goals you set for yourself.
A realistic goal will answer ‘yes’ to the following:
- Is this the right time?
- Can I reach this goal?
- Does it seem worthwhile?
TIMELY
For success, every goal needs a time frame for achievement. This target date ensures you have something to work towards and will keep you on track. This part of the S.M.A.R.T goal setting ensures that everyday tasks don’t overshadow long-term goals.
Time-bound tasks will be able to answer the following:
- When is it due?
- What are the sub-tasks that can be done today?
S.M.A.R.T goals are not only incredibly useful when it comes to studying, but they can also be applied to personal development, travel plans or events.