A strategic plan based on the over-all situation of both…
![“A strategic plan based on the over-all situation of both belligerents is ... more stable, but it too is applicable only in a given strategic stage and has to be changed when the war moves towards a new stage. ... [Conversely, tactical plans may] ... have to be changed several times a day.” quote by Mao Zedong](https://sms4smile.com/q/img-quotes/853/mao-zedong-1123_changed_a-strategic-plan-based-on-the-over-all-s_2271818.jpg)
“A strategic plan based on the over-all situation of both belligerents is ... more stable, but it too is applicable only in a given strategic stage and has to be changed when the war moves towards a new stage. ... [Conversely, tactical plans may] ... have to be changed several times a day.”
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
Strategic plans must adapt to overall war stages, while tactics may need daily revisions as conditions change.
In simple terms: Strategy fits the stage; tactics shift constantly.
Key Takeaway
Maintain flexibility in both strategy and tactics.
Themes
military strategy
adaptability
war planning
Mood
analytical
pragmatic
Type
military
educational
When to use this quote
- campaign design
- battlefield decisions
- military training
Key Concepts
strategic stability
tactical fluidity
stage‑based planning
Questions to Reflect On
- How can commanders balance stability with necessary flexibility?
- What tools help monitor when strategic shifts are needed?
A Different Perspective
Frequent changes can cause confusion and reduce cohesion.