Small step forward smash

The small step forward smash is a technique in Super Smash Bros. Melee that is used to effectively extend fsmash's range by dashing for up to 3 frames before using it. To ensure players don't do a dash attack instead of a forward smash, Melee reads the button combination "forward on control stick" + A or C left right as a forward smash even if they are up to 3 frames apart. The character already starts moving noticeably on the second frame of the dash, so as soon as A or C-stick is pressed to complete the forward smash input, the character has already done a small step.

The small step forward smash is most useful for characters whose fsmash has low startup and high range. This is the case for Marth more than any other, making this technique good for him to hit opponents who stand just outside of his range.