To ... not prepare is the greatest of crimes; to be prepared beforehand for any contingency is the greatest of virtues.

It is the rule in war, if our forces are ten to the enemy's one, to surround him; if five to one, to attack him; if twice as numerous, to divide our army into two.

The good fighters of old first put themselves beyond the possibility of defeat, and then waited for an opportunity of defeating the enemy.

In warfare, there are no constant conditions. He who can modify his tactics in relation to his opponent will succeed and win.

There are five dangerous faults which may affect a general: recklessness, which leads to destruction; cowardice, which leads to capture; a hasty temper, which can be provoked by insults; a delicacy of honour, which is sensitive to shame; over-solicitude for his men, which exposes him to worry and trouble.

Carefully study the well-being of your men, and do not overtax them. Concentrate your energy and hoard your strength. Keep your army continually on the move, and devise unfathomable plans.

The consummate leader cultivates the moral law, and strictly adheres to method and discipline; thus it is in his power to control success.