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?

With regard to narrow passes, if you can occupy them first, let them be strongly garrisoned and await the advent of the enemy.

The line between disorder and order lies in logistics.

I will be able to forecast which side will be victorious and which defeated.

In conflict, straightforward actions generally lead to engagement, surprising actions generally lead to victory.

Know the enemy and know yourself.

When the thunderclap comes, there is no time to cover the ears.