Agitate him and ascertain the pattern of his movement.

Rely not on the likelihood of the enemy's not coming, but on our own readiness to receive him

Against those skilled in attack, an enemy does not know where to defend; against the experts in defense, the enemy does not know where to attack.

Without local guides, your enemy employs the land as a weapon against you.

The general who advances without coveting fame and retreats without fearing disgrace, whose only thought is to protect his country and do good service for his sovereign, is the jewel of the kingdom.

Begin by seizing something which your opponent holds dear; then he will be amenable to your will.

As water shapes its flow in accordance with the ground, so an army manages its victory in accordance with the situation of the enemy.