Overview

A framework for assessing military campaign timing and conditions, based on Sun Wu's advice to King Helü of Wu.

Steps

1. Evaluate Troop Condition

   • Assess whether soldiers are rested or exhausted
   • Determine if forces have recovered from previous campaigns
   • Consider morale and readiness

2. Wait for Appropriate Timing

   • Do not rush when troops are fatigued (民劳)
   • Patience prevents costly failures
   • Allow conditions to mature

3. Build Strategic Alliances

   • Identify states with grievances against your enemy
   • Form coalitions with those who share your objectives
   • Ensure allies provide strategic advantage

4. Assess Enemy Leadership

   • Evaluate enemy commander's weaknesses (greed, incompetence)
   • Identify enemy's diplomatic isolation
   • Note internal discontent within enemy state

5. Plan Multi-Pronged Approach

   • Coordinate attacks from multiple directions
   • Use terrain advantages (rivers, borders)
   • Maintain supply lines and retreat options

Decision Points

• If troops are exhausted, delay campaign
• If enemy has internal dissent and external enemies, proceed
• If key allies are available, coordinate joint operations

Expected Outcomes

• Successful penetration of enemy territory
• Minimal losses through proper timing
• Strategic advantage through alliance coordination

Validation

1. Confirm troop readiness: soldiers are rested, morale is high, and forces have recovered from previous campaigns
2. Verify that strategic alliances are secured with states sharing grievances against the common enemy
3. Check that the enemy assessment is complete — leadership weaknesses, diplomatic isolation, and internal discontent are documented before proceeding