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

Move not unless you see an advantage; use not your troops unless there is something to be gained; fight not unless the position is critical.

With regard to precipitous heights, if you are beforehand with your adversary, you should occupy the raised and sunny spots, and there wait for him to come up.

First learn to become invincible, then wait for your enemy's moment of vulnerability.

Don't flail against the world, use it. Flexibility is the operative principle in the art of war.

So the principles of warfare are: Do not depend on the enemy not coming, but depend on our readiness against him. Do not depend on the enemy not attacking, but depend on our position that cannot be attacked.

Apparent confusion is a product of good order; apparent cowardice, of courage; apparent weakness, of strength.