Hence the saying: The enlightened ruler lays his plans well ahead; the good general cultivates his resources.

Convince your enemy that he will gain very little by attacking you; this will diminish his enthusiasm

All war is based on deception.

In your deliberations, when seeking to determine the military conditions, let them be made the basis of a comparison, in this wise: which of the two generals has the most ability? on which side is Discipline most rigorously enforced? which army is stronger? on which side are the officers and men more highly trained? in which army is there the greater constancy both in reward and punishment?

So the principles of warfare are: Do not depend on the enemy not coming, but depend on our readiness against him. Do not depend on the enemy not attacking, but depend on our position that cannot be attacked.

The peak efficiency of knowledge and strategy is to make conflict unnecessary.

Being unconquerable lies with yourself; being conquerable lies with your enemy.