What does the theory of gradualism state regarding evolution?

The theory of gradualism posits that evolution occurs slowly and steadily over long periods of time through small, incremental changes. This concept suggests that instead of significant changes happening quickly and leading to new species, evolution is a gradual process where species undergo slow modifications. This supports the idea that major evolutionary transitions can happen via numerous tiny changes that accumulate over generations.

The emphasis on steady change aligns with the fossil record, which often shows transitional forms sharing traits from both ancestral and descendant species, indicating a slow accumulation of changes rather than sudden leaps. Therefore, the assertion that evolution happens extremely slowly and steadily captures the essence of gradualism effectively.