Which of the following is a SMART goal example?

• A. Increase weekly running distance by 5% this month.
• B. Run more often.
• C. Improve endurance.
• D. Increase weekly running distance over the next 3 weeks with measurable weekly targets and progress tracking.

Answer: (D)

SMART goals are clear and trackable because they specify exactly what will be done, how much, by when, and how progress will be measured. The option that increases weekly running distance over the next three weeks with measurable weekly targets and progress tracking best fits this idea. It gives a concrete time frame (three weeks), sets up measurable milestones each week, and requires you to monitor progress, so you can see whether you’re meeting the targets and adjust if needed. The other options either lack a definite plan for ongoing measurement, don’t specify weekly checkpoints, or omit a clear time-bound structure, making them less actionable as SMART goals.