The starting point of this paper are two orientations towards goals that were identified in a large number of studies: orientations towards learning and orientations towards achievement. Social goals of pupils were especially discussed. There is the analysis of the relations of these orientations with success in learning, as well as with other variables related to personality and environment. Special treatment was given to the findings of empirical research indicating the possibility of existence of multiple orientations towards goals. That means that they can be in different mutual relations and in such a way exert different influence on the achievement of success in learning. Complementary effect of different goals enables flexible behavior of pupils in different situations, and coordination of different goals can be especially important for achieving success. Regarding the conceptualization of individual orientations, it was demonstrated how it is possible to treat separately both the different strivings within orientation towards achievement and orientation towards studying, and the different social goals of pupils. The characteristics of learning situation, as well as the way in which the pupil experiences the task of learning, are significant for the effect orientations can have on goals and on achievement of success in learning. Some recommendations for encouraging the pupil in teaching process are listed, as well as the implications for further research in this field.