Produce an action plan
An action plan helps you to set targets and monitor your progress
Why complete an action plan?
Producing an action plan can help you to
- recognise what you want to achieve in the long term
- consider what steps to take in the short term.
An action plan (RTF, 14KB) (see a worked example) breaks your goals down into smaller, more specific steps in order to make them more achievable. Take 20 - 30 minutes to tackle this activity.
The use of an action plan is a really good idea, especially when it is difficult to digest all the information in one go.
OU student
Review your progress
Monitor your progress by checking your plan from time to time. You can then identify what you have achieved and revise your targets if necessary.
If you change your mind about your goal then you can revisit your original plan to make necessary adjustments.
Remember action plans need to be SMART (specific, measurable, achievable, realistic, time-based).
If you need to do so, review the career planning activities in the About you section. If you want to explore career opportunities, then you can do the Job analysis activity. Go here for more help with applying for jobs, and to try out our Interview simulation activity.
Note: You will need your OU computer username and password to access the Interview simulation.
Factors to consider when writing an action plan
- What you need to do
- How you are going to take action
- Resources that could help you (e.g. finance, information, friends)
- When you will achieve your targets
- How you will know when you have achieved your goal.