Spacing

Spacing is simply the utilization of your characters range in comparison to the opponents range to ensure your attack makes contact and theirs doesn't. To space, you have to take into account the range of the attack you plan to use and push it to it's limits. Using the maximum range possible, distance yourself from the opponent enough so your attack can hit while theirs does not. Aerial speed is also a factor - characters like Wario can use their amazing air mobility to seemingly "fade in and out" with their aerial attacks. Other characters, like Donkey Kong and Ike, can rely on sheer range alone. Ike's forward air has enormous horizontal and vertical range in front of him, making it one of the best spacing tools in the game. Contrary to popular belief, spacing is character specific and influenced by the stage at hand. Platforms will affect the way you space drastically. The true key to mastering spacing is experience - learning the range of other characters and how to space against them when faced with the situation. To improve spacing, c-sticking aerials has also been advised as it can negate the momentum that aerials would have when using the "A" button. Spacing is not just limited to aerial attacks. Donkey Kong's forward tilt is an excellent spacing tool due to it's incredible range. Many tilts in general can be effectively used for spacing. Certain special attacks such as Zero Suit Samus' forward-B are excellent spacing tools. Almost all projectiles are incredible tools used for spacing because of their extreme range.