In your deliberations, when seeking to determine the military conditions, let them be made the basis of a comparison, in this wise: which of the two generals has the most ability? on which side is Discipline most rigorously enforced? which army is stronger? on which side are the officers and men more highly trained? in which army is there the greater constancy both in reward and punishment?

Thus the skilful general conducts his army just as though he were leading a single man, willy-nilly, by the hand.

Those who would wage war, should first eliminate all domestic enemies before proceeding to attack the external foe.

Should one ask: 'how do I cope with a well-ordered enemy host about to attack me?' I reply: seize something he cherishes and he will conform to your desires.

Defeat the enemies strategy.

To capture an enemies army is better than to destroy it.

Know the enemy and know yourself; in a hundred battles you will never peril.