Hu Tao: Three Formations

King Wu asked Tai Gong：

"When deploying troops in battle, there are references to the so-called Heaven Formation, Earth Formation, and Human Formation. What do these mean?"

Tai Gong replied：

"Deploying troops based on the positions of the sun, moon, stars, and the Big Dipper in relation to your front, rear, left, and right—this is the Heaven Formation. Utilizing the topographical features of hills, marshes, and waterways to arrange your forces—this is the Earth Formation. Organizing troops according to the types of chariots, cavalry, and infantry, as well as tactical methods like political inducements or military force—this is the Human Formation."

King Wu exclaimed：

"Excellent!"