He will win whose army is animated by the same spirit throughout all its ranks.

In all fighting, the direct method may be used for joining battle, but indirect methods will be needed in order to secure victory.

When the higher officers are angry and insubordinate, and on meeting the enemy give battle on their own account from a feeling of resentment, before the commander-in-chief can tell whether or not he is in a position to fight, the result is ruin.

The natural formation of the country is the soldier's best ally

Rely not on the likelihood of the enemy's not coming, but on our own readiness to receive him

One who sets the entire army in motion to chase an advantage will not attain it.

All battles are won before they start.