So a military force has no constant formation, water has no constant shape: the ability to gain victory by changing and adapting according to the opponent is called genius.

The true objective of war is peace.

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

Humble words and increased preparations are signs that the enemy is about to advance. Violent language and driving forward as if to the attack are signs that he will retreat.

He must be able to mystify his officers and men by false reports and appearances, and thus keep them in total ignorance.

Fighting with a large army under your command is nowise different from fighting with a small one: it is merely a question of instituting signs and signals.

In all fighting, the direct method may be used for joining battle, but indirect methods will be needed in order to secure victory. In battle, there are not more than two methods of attack.. the direct and the indirect; yet these two in combination give rise to an endless series of maneuvers.