Generally in war the best policy is to take a state intact; to ruin it is inferior to this.

What is essential in war is victory, not prolonged operations.

Attack the enemy's strategy.

the leader of armies is the arbiter of the people's fate, the man on whom it depends whether the nation shall be in peace or in peril.

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.

When one treats people with benevolence, justice and righteousness, and reposes confidence in them, the army will be united in mind and all will be happy to serve their leaders.

Hold out baits to entice the enemy. Feign disorder, and crush him.