An old proverb says that even heaven cannot make a diligent worker poor. However, in Taekwon-Do, diligence or intensive training alone does not produce quality techniques. On the contrary, instructions from a false or unqualified instructor would be worse than not being taught at all because unscientific movements not only reduce the power but require a tremendous amount of time to correct. On the other hand, under the proper guidance of a competent instructor, a student who trains earnestly with dedication will learn the true techniques of Taekwon-Do in a comparatively short period of time with less effort. Students should keep in mind the following secrets:

1. To study the theory of power thoroughly.
2. To understand the purpose and method of each movement clearly.
3. To bring the action of eyes, hands, feet and breath into one single coordinated action.
4. To choose the appropriate attacking tool for each vital spot.
5. To become familiar with the correct angle and distance for attack and defence.
6. Keep both the arms and legs bent slightly while movement is in motion.
7. All movements must begin with a backward motion with very few exceptions. However, once the movement is in motion it should not be stopped before reaching the target.
8. To create sine wave during the movement by utilizing the knee spring.

The eight secrets listed above are those originally taught by General Choi, and set out in the Encyclopaedia. Sometime later (and certainly by the time the 1996 Condensed Encyclopedia was published) a ninth was added:
9. To exhale briefly at the moment of each blow except a connecting motion.