Criminal Attempt requires which element?

• A. Mere preparation
• B. A completed crime
• C. Intent to commit an offense and an act amounting to more than mere preparation
• D. A failed attempt with no act

Answer: (C)

Criminal attempt is about showing both a specific intent to commit a crime and taking a concrete step toward its completion that goes beyond mere planning. The offender must intend to commit the offense and perform an act that moves toward carrying it out, not just think about it or prepare. The act doesn’t have to be the final step that would complete the crime, but it must be more than mere preparation.

That’s why the correct choice is the one that requires both intent and an act beyond mere preparation. Merely preparing isn’t enough, a completed crime isn’t necessary for attempt, and a failed effort with no act doesn’t meet the required threshold.