How many steps should separate a platoon when a company is formed?

• A. 3 steps
• B. 4 steps
• C. 5 steps
• D. 6 steps

Answer: (C)

Five steps apart is the standard spacing when forming a company from platoons. This gap keeps the line tight and evenly distributed, making the formation easy to control and visually uniform as the commander guides movements. With a standard step length, five steps provide enough room for platoon leaders to position, adjust, and maneuver without crowding adjacent elements. A smaller spacing would crowd the units and complicate command and control, while a larger spacing would weaken the formation’s cohesion and symmetry.