What are the four components of a SOAP note?

• A. Subjective data, Objective data, Assessment, Plan
• B. Assessment, Plan, Subjective data, Objective data
• C. Objective data, Subjective data, Plan, Assessment
• D. Plan, Subjective data, Objective data, Assessment

Answer: (A)

A SOAP note is organized into four parts that capture the patient encounter in a clear, logical sequence: Subjective data, Objective data, Assessment, and Plan. The correct option matches this order exactly. Subjective data reflects the patient’s own reports—their symptoms, history, and concerns. Objective data includes what you observe and measure—physical exam findings, vital signs, and test results. The Assessment is your clinical interpretation, including working diagnoses and the reasoning behind them. The Plan details what will be done next—treatments, further tests, referrals, patient education, and follow-up.

Other options mix up the order or omit one of the components, which disrupts the standard flow of information and makes it harder to see the patient’s story, the objective evidence, the clinician’s reasoning, and the planned course of action.