Are any of your goals for 2025 about improving your English? Learning a language takes time and effort, and it's sometimes hard to stay motivated and on target. Setting clear goals for your learning can help you study more effectively and make it easier to succeed.
One useful way to set goals is to use the SMART method. SMART goals are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant and Time-bound.
Imagine you want to get better at understanding spoken English in everyday situations. A SMART goal could be:
Over the next three months, I will improve my listening skills by listening to ten minutes of a podcast in English every weekday. I will make a note of five new words or phrases from each podcast, and I'll review them at the weekend. I'll test my understanding by telling a friend or family member about the podcast.
Let's break this SMART goal down.
Specific
The goal is clear and detailed, not vague. For example, instead of saying 'I want to get better at understanding', you could say 'I want to improve my listening skills and vocabulary'.
Measurable
You should be able to track your progress. For example, rather than saying 'I will practise listening regularly', you could say 'I will listen to one podcast every weekday'.
Achievable
Your goal should be realistic, considering your time and resources. Rather than saying 'I'll learn lots of new words', you could say 'I will write down five new words from each podcast and review them at the weekend.'
Relevant
Your goal should match your needs and priorities. This goal will help you feel more confident understanding everyday conversations.
Time-bound
Set a deadline to keep yourself motivated. 'Over the next three months' gives you a time frame to work in.
