It is a doctrine of war not to assume the enemy will not come, but rather to rely on one's readiness to meet him; not to presume that he will not attack, but rather to make one's self invincible.

He will win who has military capacity and is not interfered with by the sovereign.

Agitate him and ascertain the pattern of his movement.

Attack the enemy's strategy.

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

If you know yourself but not the enemy, for every victory gained you will also suffer a defeat.

The supreme art of war is to subdue the enemy without fighting.