Thus the skilful general conducts his army just as though he were leading a single man, willy-nilly, by the hand.

The value of time, that is of being a little ahead of your opponent, often provides greater advantage than superior numbers or greater resources.

Probe him and learn where his strength is abundant and where deficient.

With regard to ground of this nature, be before the enemy in occupying the raised and sunny spots, and carefully guard your line of supplies. Then you will be able to fight with advantage.

To perceive victory when it is known to all is not really skilful. Everyone calls victory in battle good, but it is not really good.

If this is long delayed, weapons are blunted and morale depressed.

The rising of birds in their flight is the sign of an ambuscade. Startled beasts indicate that a sudden attack is coming.