shortcut vs tactic

shortcut

noun
  • A method to accomplish something that omits one or more steps. 

  • A keyboard shortcut: a combination of keystrokes that provides easier access to a command or operation. 

  • A path between two points that is faster than the commonly used paths. 

  • A file that points to the location of another file and serves as a quick way to access it. 

verb
  • To take or use a shortcut 

tactic

noun
  • A maneuver, or action calculated to achieve some end. 

  • A maneuver used against an enemy. 

  • A sequence of moves that limits the opponent's options and results in an immediate and tangible advantage, typically in the form of material. 

adj
  • Describing a polymer whose repeat units are identical 

How often have the words shortcut and tactic occurred in a corpus of books? (source: Google Ngram Viewer )