Pretend to be weak, so your enemy may grow arrogant.

The art of giving orders is not to try to rectify the minor blunders and not be swayed by petty doubts.

A clever general... avoids an army when its spirit is keen, but attacks it when it is sluggish and inclined to return. This is the art of studying moods. Disciplined and calm, he awaits the appearance of disorder and hubbub among the enemy. This is the art of retaining self-possession.

If the enemy has occupied them before you, do not follow him, but retreat and try to entice him away.

The control of large numbers is possible, and like unto that of small numbers, if we subdivide them.

Thus it is that in war the victorious strategist only seeks battle after the victory has been won, whereas he who is destined to defeat first fights and afterwards looks for victory.

Thus those skilled in war subdue the enemy's army without battle .... They conquer by strategy.