Which statement correctly describes how to check SMART test progress during a run?

• A. Progress can be checked with smartctl -c /dev/sdX.
• B. Progress is only shown after test completes.
• C. Progress is shown in the kernel log.
• D. Progress is displayed in the BIOS POST screen.

Answer: (A)

Monitoring the progress of a SMART self-test mid‑run is done by querying the drive’s SMART data with smartctl. When a self-test is in progress, smartctl can show the current status and how far along the test is, including a progress percentage. Running the command with the -c option for the target device returns the Self-test execution status and the progress, so you can watch the test advance without rebooting or waiting until it finishes. The other methods aren’t as reliable for mid-test updates—kernel logs and BIOS screens aren’t guaranteed to reflect ongoing SMART tests, and progress isn’t only shown after completion. Use smartctl -c /dev/sdX (replace sdX with your device) to monitor real-time progress.