In war, then, let your great object be victory, not lengthy campaigns.

When the enemy is at ease, be able to weary him; when well fed, to starve him; when at rest, to make him move. Appear at places to which he must hasten; move swiftly where he does not expect you.

It is the business of a general to be quiet and thus ensure secrecy; upright and just, and thus maintain order.

Pretend to be weak, so your enemy may grow arrogant.

To Subdue an enemy without fighting is the greatest of skills

The rising of birds in their flight is the sign of an ambuscade. Startled beasts indicate that a sudden attack is coming.

And therefore those skilled in war bring the enemy to the field of battle and are not brought there by him.