In executing an Artful Strategy: When ten times greater, surround them; When five times greater, attack them; When two times greater, scatter them. If the opponent is ready to challenge: When fewer in number, be ready to evade them; When unequal to the match, be ready to avoid them. Even when the smaller opponents have a strong position, the larger opponent will capture them.

If a battle can not be won do not fight it.

Secret operations are essential in war; upon them the army relies to make its every move.

Ultimate excellence lies not in winning every battle, but in defeating the enemy without ever fighting.

He whose ranks are united in purpose will be victorious.

O divine art of subtlety and secrecy!

When the position is such that neither side will gain by making the first move, it is called temporising ground.