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

Whoever is the first in the field and awaits the coming of the enemy will be fresh for the fight... Therefore the clever combatant imposes his will on the enemy... By holding out advantages to him, he can cause the enemy to approach of his own accord; or by inflicting damage, he can make it impossible for the enemy to draw near.

When envoys are sent with compliments in their mouths, it is a sign that the enemy wishes for a truce.

Order or disorder depends on organisation and direction; courage or cowardice on circumstances; strength or weakness on tactical dispositions.

If those who are sent to draw water begin by drinking themselves, the army is suffering from thirst.

The business of a general is to kick away the ladder behind soldiers when they have climbed up a height.

The opportunity to secure ourselves against defeat lies in our own hands