Glossary
Graded tasks
What are Graded Tasks?
Graded tasks start with something a person can do relatively easily, then increase the difficulty in steps toward a target behavior. The point is to build a progression instead of asking for the final performance on day one.
Examples of Graded Tasks
A learner might begin with a short practice presentation and gradually work toward a longer one. A beginner's running plan might start with short periods of jogging between walks, then increase the running as the person becomes able to do more. These illustrate a progression; they are not fixed schedules that suit everyone.
How Graded Tasks Differ from Shaping
Graded tasks change the difficulty of the task. Shaping uses reinforcement for successive approximations to a target behavior. The two can be combined, but graded tasks do not require rewards.
The Behavior Change Technique Taxonomy v1 identifies graded tasks as technique 8.7. It defines the approach, not a universal rate of progression or success.
Why It Matters
“I cannot do the whole thing yet” does not tell you what the next useful step should be. Graded tasks make that next step explicit. Start with the person's present ability, then adjust the difficulty based on what happens. Use actual performance to decide when the next step is appropriate.