We would like to use this Bulletin article to focus on setting up a Personal Development Plan (PDP), some guidance on what should and should not get included, and to address a query about using your PDP in the Lifelong Learning Platform. In providing this advice we are making reference to the Mythbusters1 guidance which has been produced by the Academy of Medical Royal Colleges.
The goals within the PDP should be taken from your appraisal, and should meet your needs and the context within which you work. It is recommended that goals are developed with your appraiser using SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant and Timely) objectives, and it often helps to work out how you can demonstrate that a change planned as one of your goals has made a difference, by considering its impact on patients.