The Ninth Directive

"Improve the boundary - strengthen the framework!"

This directive is subordinate to the previous eight. Only when all the framework links and all the framework barriers on either side are secure, only when there is no opportunity to establish a new framework stone or framework spoiler, then and only then should you consider this directive. That said, towards the end of the game, this directive is frequently relevant.

When considering how to improve the boundary between opposing territories, the first concern is to avoid overreaching. Having established your framework links, it makes little sense to invite a damaging counterattack. On the other hand, playing to merely strengthen a secure link is inefficient. Theoretically the maximum move might extend your territory and/or reduce your opponent's territory without effecting the strength of your framework one way or the other. But in practice (and with the exception of deep invasion) the best options for improving the boundary usually add strength to the framework.

¨Don't overreach!
¨Guarding against invasion