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.

First learn to become invincible, then wait for your enemy's moment of vulnerability.

No ruler should put troops into the field merely to gratify his own spleen; no general should fight a battle simply out of pique.

And therefore those skilled in war bring the enemy to the field of battle and are not brought there by him.

One who speaks deferentially but increases his preparations will advance. One who speaks belligerently and advances hastily will retreat.

Energy may be likened to the bending of a crossbow; decision, to the releasing of a trigger.

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