What is essential in war is victory, not prolonged operations.

He who is not sage and wise, humane and just, cannot use secret agent.s. And he who is not delicate and subtle cannot get the truth out of them.

The skilful employer of men will employ the wise man, the brave man, the covetous man, and the stupid man.

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

It is the business of a general to be quiet and thus ensure secrecy; upright and just, and thus maintain order.

On the field of battle, the spoken word does not carry far enough; hence the institution of gongs and drums... banners and flags. Gongs and drums, banners and flags, are means whereby the ears and eyes of the host may be focused on one particular point.

Agitate him and ascertain the pattern of his movement.