Those who are victorious plan effectively and change decisively. They are like a great river that maintains its course but adjusts its flow...they have form but are formless. They are skilled in both planning and adapting and need not fear the result of a thousand battles: for they win in advance, defeating those that have already lost.

If a battle can not be won do not fight it.

Agitate him and ascertain the pattern of his movement.

We cannot enter into alliances until we are acquainted with the designs of our neighbors. We are not fit to lead an army on the march unless we are familiar with the face of the country.

Attack is the secret of defense; defense is the planning of an attack.

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

Bring war material with you from home, but forage on the enemy... use the conquered foe to augment one's own strength.