ACCA Applied Knowledge · Business and Technology · Competence frameworks and personal development
A PDP objective states: 'Improve my Excel skills.' Which change would most improve it by making it more specific and time-bound?
The best improvement is to complete an intermediate Excel course and build pivot-table reports by 30 September, because it is specific, measurable and has a deadline. Vague wording such as 'really good' or 'soon' gives no way to judge achievement.
- A'Become really good at Excel soon'
- B'Learn about all software the department uses'
- C'Complete an intermediate Excel course and build pivot-table reports for monthly results by 30 September'Correct
- D'Ask my manager to improve my Excel skills'
Explanation
Good objectives are specific, measurable and time-bound. The third option names a clear action, a measurable output and a deadline. The others remain vague, have no deadline, or pass responsibility to someone else.
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