Which type of plan is characterized by being specific and applicable to short-term goals?

The correct choice is operational plan. An operational plan is designed to detail the specific steps and resources needed to achieve short-term objectives within an organization. It typically focuses on day-to-day operations and outlines the tasks, timelines, and responsibilities required to meet immediate goals. This plan is essential for effectively translating broader strategic intentions into actionable tasks that can be executed in the short term.

Operational plans are typically more detailed and focus on specific departments or units, ensuring that every element of the operation is aligned with the organization's immediate objectives. This contrasts with strategic plans, which are broader and aimed at long-term goals, and directional plans, which offer overall guidance without the specificity found in operational plans. Specific plans also tend to be comprehensive in nature, but in the context of short-term goals, operational plans are most applicable for ensuring that particular tasks are accomplished efficiently and effectively.