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.

Those who would wage war, should first eliminate all domestic enemies before proceeding to attack the external foe.

A sovereign of high character and intelligence must be able to know the right man, should place the responsibility on him, and expect results.

These are six ways of courting defeat, which must be carefully noted by the general who has attained a responsible post.

Rewards for good service should not be deferred a single day.

To a surrounded enemy, you must leave a way of escape.

Weak leadership can wreck the soundest strategy; forceful execution of even a poor plan can often bring victory.