The SMART framework gives nursing students a clear, practical way to plan and achieve their goals, both academically and on placement. We look at how to ensure your goals are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant and Time-bound, and how using SMART can help you develop critical thinking and organisational skills. A programme lead for health and social care and a practice development and education lead explain how to create SMART goals and use them effectively in your learning, clinical placements and beyond.