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.

Spies are a most important element in water, because on them depends an army's ability to move.

In the midst of difficulties we are always ready to seize an advantage, we may extricate ourselves from misfortune.

Should the enemy forestall you in occupying a pass, do not go after him if the pass is fully garrisoned, but only if it is weakly garrisoned.

The successful person has unusual skill at dealing with conflict and ensuring the best outcome for all.

It is sufficient to estimate the enemy situation correctly and to concentrate your strength to capture him. There is no more to it than this. He who lacks foresight and underestimates his enemy will surely be captured by him.

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.