Tactic (method) facts for kids
A tactic is a specific action or a small group of actions taken to reach a short-term goal. Think of it as a step-by-step plan for a small part of a bigger challenge. These actions can be used in many areas, like business, protests, and the military. You also see tactics in chess, sports, and other competitive games. The word comes from the Ancient Greek word taktike, which means 'art of arrangement'.
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What's the Difference: Tactic vs. Strategy?
It's easy to mix up tactics and strategy, but they are different! A strategy is your big, overall plan for reaching a major goal. It's like the general idea of how you'll win a game or achieve something important.
How Tactics Fit into Strategy
Tactics are the specific, smaller actions you take to follow your strategy. If your strategy is to win a soccer game, a tactic might be to pass the ball quickly to the front of the field. Another tactic could be to defend tightly when the other team has the ball.
Tactics in Military Operations
In the military, a military tactic is a detailed plan for a smaller group of soldiers, like a division. Their goal is to complete a specific mission or reach a certain target. For example, a strategy might be to win a war. A tactic for that war could be a surprise attack on an enemy base. This specific action helps achieve the larger goal.
The main difference is that tactics are the actual ways you get something done. Strategy is the big picture plan that guides all those smaller actions.
See also
- Chess tactics
- Political tactics
- Protest tactics
- Tactical bombing
- Tactical wargame
