A military operation involves deception. Even though you are competent, appear to be incompetent. Though effective, appear to be ineffective.

These are six ways of courting defeat, which must be carefully noted by the general who has attained a responsible post.

The clever combatant looks to the effect of combined energy, and does not require too much from individuals. Hence his ability to pick out the right men and utilize combined energy

Where the army is, prices are high; when prices rise the wealth of the people is exhausted.

Ground which can be freely traversed by both sides is called accessible.

If your enemy is secure at all points, be prepared for him. If he is in superior strength, evade him. If your opponent is tempermental, seek to irritate him. Pretend to be weak, that he may grow arrogant. If he is taking his ease, give him no rest. If his forces are united, separate them. If sovereign and subject are in accord, put division between them. Attack him where he is unprepared, appear where you are not expected.

When a general, unable to estimate the enemy's strength, allows an inferior force to engage a larger one, or hurls a weak detachment against a powerful one, and neglects to place picked soldiers in the front rank, the result must be rout.