In goal-setting theory, what is the role of feedback?

• A. Feedback has no impact on performance.
• B. Feedback replaces the need for clear goals.
• C. Feedback is only useful for beginners.
• D. Feedback helps adjust goals and strategy, thereby improving performance.

Answer: (D)

Feedback creates a corrective loop in goal pursuit: it provides information about how current progress stacks up against the goal and whether the chosen approach is working. With timely, specific feedback, you can compare actual performance to the target, adjust effort or tactics, and even recalibrate the goal if needed. This ongoing adjustment process is what drives better performance, because actions are guided by updated information rather than sticking with the same plan regardless of results. Feedback isn’t meant to replace clear goals; it informs how to pursue them. It’s also useful across all levels of experience, not just for beginners, since even seasoned performers need to fine-tune strategies in response to new conditions.