make territory while attacking

This is a basic strategy proverb. Success in attacking which isn't aimed at killing is to do with a direction of play that

1. makes territory, or
2. builds up a framework, or
3. at least constructs influence in a useful direction.

If an attack doesn't do any of these things, why attack? Later in the game it may become more profitable to attack in another direction. In any case one should have a reason for everything. Attacking to make territory is one of the best.

Charles Matthews