There were two main battle tactics used by the British and the Americans in the war; linear tactics and guerilla warfare
Linear Tactics
Soldiers would form long lines in rows fifty yards apart of the opposing side. When given the signal from their commander, all the soldiers on one side in the first row would shoot their muskets. After shooting, they would quickly step back and reload their muskets while the second row would take their place and fire. Since muskets were so inaccurate, shooting at the same time created a wall of bullets that flew towards the enemy. Having two rows allowed the soldiers to constantly bombard the enemy. This tactic was used more commonly by the British, because this is what they trained their soldiers to use.
32. A painting of linear tactics being used by the British army
Guerilla Warfare
Guerrilla Warfare had soldiers use the landscape and terrain as cover. For example, soldiers might hide in a tree or behind a bush, waiting for the right opportunity to shoot his gun. It was helpful for forces that were not well supplied, had smaller numbers, and/or limited weaponry. This tactic was used more by the American army, and it helped them get an advantage over the British, who at the time were considered the strongest military power in the world. Although this strategy proved to be successful for the Americans, it was not the sole tactic that defeated the British. The colonists also often fought in the traditional European method, or linear tactics.
33. A painting of Guerilla Warfare being used by American soldiers