One who sets the entire army in motion to chase an advantage will not attain it.

One mark of a great soldier is that he fight on his own terms or fights not at all.

Correct your mistake as soon as you have found it.

The clever combatant imposes his will on the enemy, but does not allow the enemy's will to be imposed on him.

Do not press an enemy at bay. Prince Fu Ch'ai said: "Wild beasts, when at bay, fight desperately. How much more is this true of men! If they know there is no alternative, they will fight to the death.

At first, then, exhibit the coyness of a maiden, until the enemy gives you an opening; afterwards emulate the rapidity of a running hare, and it will be too late for the enemy to oppose you.

To conquer the enemy without resorting to war is the most desirable. The highest form of generalship is to conquer the enemy by strategy.