The Art of War is self-explanatory

And therefore only the enlightened sovereign and the worthy general who are able to use the most intelligent people as agents are certain to achieve great things.

Attack the enemy's strategy.

The one who figures on victory at headquarters before even doing battle is the one who has the most strategic factors on his side.

He must be able to mystify his officers and men by false reports and appearances, and thus keep them in total ignorance.

All war is based on deception.

It is more important to outhink your enemy, than to outfight him