In backward chaining, after the final step is mastered, which step is typically taught next?

• A. All remaining steps at once.
• B. The first step again.
• C. The step before the final step.
• D. No more steps are added.

Answer: (C)

Backward chaining builds a task by teaching steps from the end toward the beginning. After the learner has mastered the final step, the next step to teach is the one that comes immediately before the final step. This keeps the ending of the task as the reliable cue and ensures every teaching trial ends with a completed task, reinforcing overall mastery. Adding the penultimate step next gradually links earlier steps to the already mastered ending, promoting independence. Presenting all remaining steps at once would overwhelm the learner, going against the gradual buildup. Repeating the first step or stopping after the final step would fail to move the chain toward full, independent completion.