wordsmen do not just charge mindlessly towards their opponents, no matter what you might see on TV.  They know how to step correctly in each situation to gain the advantage. Correct footwork is one of the most basic skills in any style of sword fighting. Not all fights begin sword tip to sword tip. There are many occasions where you need to enter the fight from a distance or to regain a range close enough to attack. The half step is the most common method of closing range with precision. Do it like this:
From a basic stance position, move your leading foot forward. Do this by lifting the toe first and setting down the heel first. You will be rising up slightly, from the rooted rear foot.

When the front foot is repositioned, move the rear foot, the same distance forward so you are back to basic stance position. The rear foot lands at a 45 degree angle and you sink into it through the ball of the foot. It takes the weight.

Continue advancing like this with the leading foot always leading and the rear foot always behind it.

Make sure you don't lose lateral distance. One of the most common errors for beginners is stepping the rear foot too close to and behind the leading foot. This is not how to step correctly. Maintain your get-away room. Don't trip over your own foot. See common errors in sword stances "No Get-Away Room" for illustrations.

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