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.

Thus, though I have heard of successful military operations that were clumsy but swift, cleverness has never been seen associated with long delays.

Pretend inferiority and encourage his arrogance.

If you are situated at a great distance from the enemy, and the strength of the two armies is equal, it is not easy to provoke a battle, and fighting will be to your disadvantage.

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

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

Rewards for good service should not be deferred a single day.