Therefore the skillful leader subdues the enemy's troops without any fighting; he captures their cities without laying siege to them; he overthrows their kingdom without lengthy operations in the field.

Attack where he is unprepared; sally forth when he does not expect you.

A military operation involves deception. Even though you are competent, appear to be incompetent. Though effective, appear to be ineffective.

Perfection in war lies in so sapping your opponents will that he surrenders without fighting.

Other conditions being equal, if one force is hurled against another ten times its size, the result will be the flight of the former.

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

Attack him where he is unprepared, appear where you are not expected.