Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of SMART objectives?

• A. Specific
• B. Measurable
• C. Ambitious
• D. Time-bound

Answer: (C)

SMART objectives are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. Ambitious is not one of the formal characteristics that make up SMART. The framework asks for goals that are clear, measurable, realistically attainable, aligned with business value, and with a clear deadline. While having an ambitious goal can be valuable, the term itself isn’t part of the SMART acronym, so it isn’t considered a defining characteristic of SMART objectives. The other attributes—Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound—together ensure a goal is clear, trackable, feasible, aligned with priorities, and time-constrained.