How powder monkeys advanced into sailor roles

How did a powder monkey advance into other shipboard roles?

Age, size, and ability mattered; as a boy grew and proved capable, he could move into ordinary sailor duties.

Selection and advancement depended largely on age, size, and ability. A boy could move from powder-monkey duties into ordinary sailor work as he grew older and physically capable. This was a practical progression rather than a promotion decided solely by the captain. A later clarification adds build and judgment to the factors used when assigning more demanding shipboard work.