subdoel

Subdoel is a Dutch term that denotes a subgoal: a partial objective intended to contribute to a larger, overarching goal. The word combines sub- as a prefix with doel, meaning goal. In English-language contexts the term is often translated as subgoal or sub-objective and is used in planning and problem solving to structure work.

In planning and problem solving, subdoelen help manage complexity by breaking a task into smaller, more controllable components. They are defined with a specific outcome, a required sequence, and criteria for completion. In artificial intelligence and computer science, subgoals are central to hierarchical planning and HTN (hierarchical task networks) planning, where high-level goals are decomposed until primitive actions remain.

In education and project management, subgoals are used to scaffold learning and to organize work. Teachers use subgoals to sequence concepts, while project teams use them to assign responsibilities and track progress. A main objective such as launching a product can be broken into subgoals like market research, product design, and testing.

Example: a main goal is to launch a website. Subgoals include selecting a domain, building the homepage, setting up a payment gateway, and performing usability testing. Each subgoal can be accompanied by milestones and metrics to assess readiness.

Benefits of subgoaling include clearer planning, improved motivation, and the possibility of parallel work. Potential drawbacks are over-fragmentation, misalignment with the main goal, and the risk that subgoals become vanity milestones rather than meaningful outcomes. Related concepts include goal decomposition, milestones, and hierarchical planning.