The concept of a stratagem has existed in Chinese culture for at least three thousand years. It can be interpreted as some kind of plan or calculation, as a trick or as a military stratagem. In a broader sense, stratagems are strategic techniques and indirect tactical moves used in difficult situations to achieve goals, gain an advantage, and seize the initiative. The art of stratagems is applicable in all life circumstances when a problem cannot be solved by direct, “frontal” methods. A stratagem is built as an algorithm; its success depends on understanding the psychological characteristics of the enemy, taking into account the specifics of the situation, the ability to calculate moves and foresee their consequences, and discipline in implementing the plan. Open publications of a collection of 36 stratagems appeared in China only in the second half of the 20th century and quickly became popular. a number of world bestsellers on strategy and business psychology. The author of the book is Harro von Senger, a famous sinologist and researcher of the doctrine of stratagems, adapted the wisdom of Chinese strategists for the modern manager and described their use in business practice and in everyday life.