Ground which can be abandoned but is hard to re-occupy is called entangling.

When he utilizes combined energy, his fighting men become as it were like unto rolling logs or stones. For it is the nature of a log or stone to remain motionless on level ground, and to move when on a slope; if four-cornered, to come to a standstill, but if round-shaped to go rolling down.

If words of command are not clear and distinct, if orders are not thoroughly understood, the general is to blame. But if his orders are clear, and the soldiers nevertheless disobey, then it is the fault of their officers.

As water shapes its flow in accordance with the ground, so an army manages its victory in accordance with the situation of the enemy.

Ground which can be freely traversed by both sides is called accessible.

In all fighting, the direct method may be used for joining battle, but indirect methods will be needed in order to secure victory. In battle, there are not more than two methods of attack.. the direct and the indirect; yet these two in combination give rise to an endless series of maneuvers.

If not in the interests of the state, do not act. If you cannot succeed, do not use troops. If you are not in danger, do not fight.