How far must the sole plate be positioned from the end of the plate?

The correct choice is positioned within 12 inches from the end of the plate. In building construction, particularly in framing walls, it is crucial to ensure that the sole plate is anchored properly to provide structural integrity. The requirement to position the sole plate within 12 inches of the end of the plate helps to ensure that the fastening points adequately hold the structure together, preventing potential failure points in the construction.

Placing the sole plate too far from the end can lead to a weak connection between the wall and the foundation or the structure it is supporting, which may compromise the load-bearing performance of the wall. Therefore, maintaining this maximum distance provides a standard that helps maintain the building's structural stability and safety in compliance with the relevant building codes.