To Subdue an enemy without fighting is the greatest of skills

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

In desperate position, you must fight.

It is through the dispositions of an army that its condition may be discovered. Conceal your dispositions, and your condition will remain secret, which leads to victory,; show your dispositions, and your condition will become patent, which leads to defeat.

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.

A battle avoided cannot be lost.

When the soldiers stand leaning on their spears, they are faint from want of food.