How to Set SMART Goals | Goal Setting for Students

Summary

In this 'Two Minute Classroom' video, the presenter discusses the SMART method for setting effective goals, ideal for students, athletes, and anyone starting anew. The acronym stands for Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. Using the example of scoring at least 90% on a science exam, the video illustrates how to set a clear, motivating goal with a plan, ensuring it aligns with long-term objectives and has a deadline. The presenter also emphasizes the importance of writing down goals and tracking progress, offering planner recommendations for goal achievement.

Takeaways

• 📝 Goal setting is a popular activity at the start of new beginnings like the New Year, school year, or sports season.
• 🔑 The SMART method is a useful framework for setting goals, standing for Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound.
• 🎯 A goal should be specific, answering the questions of what, when, and why, to provide clarity and motivation.
• 📏 Measurability in goals allows you to track progress and determine if the goal has been achieved.
• 🏋️‍♂️ Achievability means breaking down the goal into smaller, manageable steps that lead to the main objective.
• 🔍 Relevance ensures the goal aligns with your long-term objectives and doesn't detract from other important goals.
• ⏰ Time-bound goals have a clear deadline, which helps in planning and working towards the goal.
• 🤔 The 'why' behind a goal is crucial as it serves as the motivation to keep working towards it.
• 📚 An example goal is scoring at least 90% on the next science exam, which is specific, measurable, and time-bound.
• 📈 Writing down goals and regularly reviewing them is essential for keeping them at the forefront of your mind and tracking progress.
• 📈 Using a planner can help in organizing and tracking the steps needed to achieve your goals.

Q & A

What is the SMART method for setting goals?

The SMART method is an acronym that stands for Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. It is a framework used to set clear and actionable goals.

Why is goal setting popular at certain times of the year?

Goal setting is popular at the start of the new year, the beginning of the school year, and the start of sports seasons because these are natural starting points that motivate people to set new goals.

What is an example of a specific goal mentioned in the script?

An example of a specific goal is scoring at least ninety percent on the next science exam.

How far in advance is the science exam from the time the goal is set?

The science exam is set four weeks from the time the goal is set.

What is the importance of the 'why' in setting a goal?

The 'why' is important as it represents the motivation behind the goal and can be referred back to when one gets discouraged.

How does one make a goal measurable?

A goal is made measurable by attaching metrics to it, such as a specific score or performance level, so that it is clear when the goal has been achieved.

Why is 'doing well in your next exam' considered a poor goal?

'Doing well in your next exam' is considered a poor goal because it is not measurable and there is no clear way to define success or failure.

What steps are suggested to ensure a goal is achievable?

To ensure a goal is achievable, one should break the goal down into smaller goals, create a plan, and identify the actions needed to reach the main goal.

How does one check if a goal is relevant?

One checks if a goal is relevant by asking if it aligns with long-term objectives, keeps them on track with other goals, and does not pull them away from more important goals.

What is the purpose of making a goal time-bound?

Making a goal time-bound sets a deadline that acts as a target, helping to work backward and set smaller steps to achieve the goal by the specified time.

What is the bonus tip for achieving goals mentioned in the script?

The bonus tip is to write down goals and look at them often, using a daily or weekly planner to track progress.