Which term describes a gradual deviation from the intended marching path?

• A. Interval
• B. Drifting
• C. Grid system
• D. Even positions

Answer: (B)

Drifting captures a slow, cumulative shift away from the intended marching path. When small errors in step size, timing, or foot placement add up over many steps, the formation gradually moves off course. It’s a creeping deviation, not a sudden veer, which is why it’s described as drifting rather than a one-time misstep.

In contrast, interval refers to the spacing between marchers, grid system is a reference framework for alignment, and even positions describe keeping uniform spacing and alignment throughout. None of those describe a gradual, accumulating departure like drifting does.