Which term defines a set of successive component steps in a complex behavior?

• A. Task Analysis
• B. Forward chaining
• C. Backward chaining
• D. Total Task Presentation

Answer: (A)

Task analysis is the process of identifying and listing the individual steps that make up a complex behavior in the order they occur. This creates a clear sequence of successive component steps that a learner can be taught one by one or in small groups, building toward the complete skill. By mapping out each discrete action, you can design instruction that targets each part of the task and track progress as the learner masters them. Methods like forward chaining and backward chaining are ways to teach the steps once they’re laid out, and total task presentation would show all steps at once rather than break them into a sequence.