By altering his arrangements and changing his plans, the skillful general keeps the enemy without definite knowledge. By shifting his camp and taking circuitous routes, he prevents the enemy from anticipating his purpose. At the critical moment, the leader of an army acts like one who has climbed up a height and then kicks away the ladder behind him.

All wars are won or lost before they are ever fought.

Hold out baits to entice the enemy. Feign disorder, and crush him.

Strategy without tactics is the slowest route to victory. Tactics without strategy is the noise before defeat.

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

Nothing is more difficult than the art of maneuvering for advantageous positions.

When the enemy is at ease, be able to weary him; when well fed, to starve him; when at rest, to make him move. Appear at places to which he must hasten; move swiftly where he does not expect you.