The general who does not understand these, may be well acquainted with
the configuration of the country, yet he will not be able to turn his
knowledge to practical account.
Literally, “get the advantage of the ground,” which means not only
securing good positions, but availing oneself of natural
advantages in every possible way. Chang Yü says: “Every kind of
ground is characterised by certain natural features, and also
gives scope for a certain variability of plan. How is it possible
to turn these natural features to account unless topographical
knowledge is supplemented by versatility of mind?”