So there are five ways of knowing who will win. Those who know when to fight and when not to fight are victorious. Those who discern when to use many or few troops are victorious. Those whose upper and lower ranks have the same desire are victorious.

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

One who sets the entire army in motion to chase an advantage will not attain it.

The business of a general is to kick away the ladder behind soldiers when they have climbed up a height.

Do not press an enemy at bay.

If asked how to cope with a great host of the enemy in orderly array and on the point of marching to the attack, I should say: "Begin by seizing something which your opponent holds dear; then he will be amenable to your will." Rapidity is the essence of war: take advantage of the enemy's unreadiness, make your way by unexpected routes, and attack unguarded spots.

Apparent confusion is a product of good order; apparent cowardice, of courage; apparent weakness, of strength.