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

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

These are six ways of courting defeat, which must be carefully noted by the general who has attained a responsible post.

It is only one who is thoroughly acquainted with the evils of war that can thoroughly understand the profitable way of carrying it on.

The line between disorder and order lies in logistics.

If your enemy is secure at all points, be prepared for him. If he is in superior strength, evade him. If your opponent is tempermental, seek to irritate him. Pretend to be weak, that he may grow arrogant. If he is taking his ease, give him no rest. If his forces are united, separate them. If sovereign and subject are in accord, put division between them. Attack him where he is unprepared, appear where you are not expected.

Build your opponent a golden bridge to retreat across.