Black and white undecided

Two equal players face each other and the board is still undecided. The verse advises keeping your plan to yourself and says the outcome depends on making the right move at the right moment.

Its counsel is careful timing. Studying the board counts as much as moving, and an early reveal gives away your advantage.

If you are in a salary negotiation, a competitive bid or any contest with a capable rival, prepare your options in private and learn what the other side wants. Decide what would make you move first, and act when those conditions appear. The result remains open until then.