If weaker numerically, be capable of withdrawing. And if in all respects unequal, be capable of eluding him, for a small force is but booty for one more powerful. Avoid fighting heavy battles on two fronts simultaneously. Deceive the enemy before your attack by feigning an attack somewhere else first. Try to get the enemy to attack you where you are strong, such as a well defended planet.
All warfare is based on deception.
The enemy will respond by toughening the defense of those planets. That the impact of your arms may be like a grindstone dashed against an egg, use the science of weak points and strong. He wins his battles by making no mistakes. Making no mistakes is what establishes the certainty of victory, for it means conquering an enemy that is already defeated. A wise general makes a point of foraging on the enemy.