Set the troops to their tasks without imparting your designs.

What is of the greatest importance in war is extraordinary speed: One cannot afford to neglect opportunity.

To Subdue an enemy without fighting is the greatest of skills

If I am able to determine the enemy's dispositions while at the same time I conceal my own, then I can concentrate and he must divide.

With regard to ground of this nature, be before the enemy in occupying the raised and sunny spots, and carefully guard your line of supplies. Then you will be able to fight with advantage.

Bring war material with you from home, but forage on the enemy... use the conquered foe to augment one's own strength.

Someone unfamiliar with the mountains and forests cannot advance [the team]. One who does not employ local guides cannot gain the advantage.