Perfection in war lies in so sapping your opponents will that he surrenders without fighting.

In the midst of difficulties we are always ready to seize an advantage, we may extricate ourselves from misfortune.

When a general, unable to estimate the enemy's strength, allows an inferior force to engage a larger one, or hurls a weak detachment against a powerful one, and neglects to place picked soldiers in the front rank, the result must be rout.

Therefore, just as water retains no constant shape, so in warfare there are no constant conditions.

A military operation involves deception. Even though you are competent, appear to be incompetent. Though effective, appear to be ineffective.

Thus it is that in war the victorious strategist only seeks battle after the victory has been won, whereas he who is destined to defeat first fights and afterwards looks for victory.

Secret operations are essential in war; upon them the army relies to make its every move.