hmm, well if u use some of the tips and tricks with the combat stuff, i'd imagine they all help a great deal...
i dont personally use any sorta pause during battle, as i'd rather be at a slight disadvantage anyway since the game AI in campaign and battle usually sux, bad campaign ai in turn effects its battles of course,
making units groups is always a good idea, and as far as warring through a century or two, anyone who incorporates the art of war tactics will excell...as using them well i have found crushes the game basically