How to make study goals
It’s easy to tell yourself that you want to achieve straight A’s, but what steps have you put in place to make it happen? Simply writing out generic targets isn’t enough, you’ll need to create SMART goals if you want success.
In order to fulfil this, you’ll need to set objectives and create a roadmap for how you’ll reach your target. Most importantly, you’ll create deadlines so that you can mark your progress.
So, what are SMART goals?
Specific
In order to set a goal, it must be as specific as possible. For example, “I want to improve my grades in English,” is too generic. “I’d like to achieve a strong B in my final English Literature exam,” is better. The narrower your goal, the easier it will be to map out the steps necessary to achieve it.
Measurable
Goals must be measurable, which means there must be some way of quantifying your progress. If we use the example above, identify what mark you would need to get a B in English Literature. It might then be worth setting yourself monthly practice papers, for example, so that you can see whether your marks are improving. By checking your grades regularly, it gives you an opportunity to re-evaluate and change your study method or resources if needed. This is crucial when considering how to make study goals.
Attainable
A goal must be attainable, but this doesn’t necessarily mean it has to be easy. It means that the goal must be something achievable within the time allocated, with the resources available to you. For example, is getting a B in English Literature attainable? Has this been done before? What grade are you currently on? How much time have you got left before the final exam? These are all questions you’ll need to ask