Patton argues that effective planning requires adaptation to circumstances rather than an attempt to force events to conform to a predetermined plan. In the military context, conditions can change rapidly as information, terrain, enemy movements and available forces alter what is possible. A commander therefore needs a clear objective while remaining prepared to change the means of achieving it.

The quotation distinguishes strategic purpose from rigid planning. Patton presents flexibility as an important part of high command because a workable plan must reflect the situation that actually exists, not the situation a commander expected to encounter. His reference to developing two different but equally feasible plans illustrates this principle in practice. The broader lesson is that successful strategy depends on reassessment and adjustment when circumstances change. The quotation is therefore chiefly concerned with military strategy, particularly the relationship between planning, judgement and operational flexibility.

Full quotation

“If the doings of the Third Army and its General are subject to inquiry by future historians, the two points just mentioned should be a warning. In the space of two days I had evolved two plans, wholly distinct, both of which were equally feasible. The point I am trying to bring out is that one does not plan and then try to make circumstances fit those plans. One tries to make plans fit the circumstances. I think the difference between success and failure in high command depends upon the ability, or lack of it, to do just that.”