In close order drill, what is an arrangement of elements on line, in column, or in any other prescribed manner called?

The term used to describe an arrangement of elements on line, in column, or in any other prescribed manner is known as a formation. In the context of military drills, formations are critical for maintaining structure and discipline while executing various movements and maneuvers. They allow for the organized arrangement of units, which is essential for effective communication and cohesion during training and operations.

In close order drill, establishing a proper formation ensures that all service members are positioned correctly relative to one another, which facilitates commands being clearly understood and executed. Formations also serve strategic purposes in both ceremonial settings and tactical deployments.