A goal is something you want to reach, and an objective is a clear, specific aim, often in study or work.
Setting what you aim for
Not ""Diego made a goal of twenty new words a week."" — say ""Diego set a goal of twenty new words a week."". You set a goal, not "make" one.
Try it: Ira: What's your plan for today? Maya: One clear ___: finish my poster design by noon. Choose the word for the blank. (objective / growth / success) Answer: objective — A clear, specific aim is an objective.
Word
Pronunciation
Example
goal
/ɡoʊl/
Amina set a goal to read one article every week.
objective
/əbˈdʒektɪv/
Mei's objective was to improve her listening score.
When effort pays off
An achievement is something good you did with effort, success is a good result, and attitude is how you think.
Try it: Hiroshi: What should I write on my scholarship form? Sofia: List your ___, like the projects you've finished. Choose the word for the blank. (achievements / objectives / challenges) Answer: achievements — Good things you have already done with effort are achievements.
Word
Pronunciation
Example
achievement
/əˈtʃiːvmənt/
Passing the driving test was a big achievement for Liam.
success
/səkˈses/
Farid's success came from regular practice.
attitude
/ˈætɪtuːd/
Hiroshi has a great attitude toward hard work.
Facing difficulty and getting better
A challenge or obstacle makes progress hard, while growth and improvement are what you gain by getting better.
Not ""Amina noticed a growth after the course."" — say ""Amina noticed real growth after the course."". Growth is uncountable here, so do not use "a growth" for personal progress.
Try it: Ira: How was your first cooking class at Farville? Wei: Hard! But it was a good ___, and I'd like to try again. Choose the word for the blank. (challenge / improvement / success) Answer: challenge — A difficult task that takes effort is a challenge.
Word
Pronunciation
Example
challenge
/ˈtʃælɪndʒ/
Maya faced a challenge when she started a harder design course.
obstacle
/ˈɑbstəkəl/
Losing her notes was an obstacle, but Maya kept going.
growth
/ɡroʊθ/
Amina noticed personal growth after joining the speaking group.
improvement
/ɪmˈpruːvmənt/
Mei's pronunciation shows real improvement.
The mindset behind the effort
Motivation is the reason you keep working, determined means you won't give up, and confidence is believing you can do it.
Try it: Mateo: How do you get up at six to run every day? Camila: I'm running the city race in May, so my ___ is strong. Choose the word for the blank. (motivation / obstacle / achievement) Answer: motivation — The reason that keeps you working is your motivation.
Word
Pronunciation
Example
motivation
/ˌmoʊtɪˈveɪʃən/
Her motivation comes from wanting to teach.
determined
/dɪˈtɝmɪnd/
Lars is determined to finish the course.
confidence
/ˈkɑnfɪdəns/
Speaking in public built her confidence.
What are the common mistakes?
Incorrect
Correct
Why
"Diego made a goal of twenty new words a week."
"Diego set a goal of twenty new words a week."
You set a goal, not "make" one.
"Amina noticed a growth after the course."
"Amina noticed real growth after the course."
Growth is uncountable here, so do not use "a growth" for personal progress.