War is coming.

It is a war fought in the aisles and cash register lines by shoppers jostling and clawing at each other in a bid to get the best deal for them and their loved ones.

It’s time for Black Friday.

This annual ritual that companies great and small hope will push their annual operating budgets into the black — hence the name — the Friday after Thanksgiving has always traditionally been a day of deals and promotions that draws shoppers in to a virtual contest of strength, speed and commercial wisdom.

As Chinese philosopher Sun Tzu wrote in “The Art of War,” “Victorious warriors win first and then go to war, while defeated warriors go to war first and then seek to win.” Only the most prepared of shoppers will emerge victorious on Black Friday. Be well prepared with these tips compiled by the Reporter.

Make use of technology

Apps available for both iOS and Android platforms will aggregate the best Black Friday deals into one simple location right on your phone. Many apps also will show deals and promotions for stores near your location. Popular apps include “TGI Black Friday” by eCatcher Inc., “Black Friday” by FatWallet, and Slickdeal’s “Black Friday 2014 App.”

Secure an easy victory from afar

Almost as influential in recent years as Black Friday, Cyber Monday has emerged as the day to find the best deals from online retailers. Along with Cyber Monday, many traditional stores also have their Black Friday specials available on their websites, if only for a short time.

Plan your shopping by type

According to Forbes Magazine, Black Friday tends to feature the best deals for electronics, movies, video games and other gadgets. Since the best deals for clothing and fashion may be long past until January, try to avoid buying items that are not at least 40 percent off retail price.

Plan before you take the field

Before stepping out that door, write down who you are shopping for and what you are buying for them. This will help prevent impulse buying and aimless browsing through potentially huge Black Friday crowds.

An army marches on its stomach

If you plan to be out deal-hunting for a long time, make plans for food and drink in your overall strategy. Staying fed, especially by avoiding fast food, will keep you energized and keep your shopping experience more pleasant.

Pray for victory, plan for failure

Try to research and identify potential substitutes if the item you want to get is sold out, especially if the item is in high demand that year.