The successful person has unusual skill at dealing with conflict and ensuring the best outcome for all.

There has never been a protracted war from which a country has benefitted.

Someone unfamiliar with the mountains and forests cannot advance [the team]. One who does not employ local guides cannot gain the advantage.

When you are ignorant of the enemy but know yourself, your chances of winning or losing are equal.

Subtle and insubstantial, the expert leaves no trace; divinely mysterious, he is inaudible. Thus he is master of his enemy's fate.

In making tactical dispositions, the highest pitch you can attain is to conceal them.

With regard to ground of this nature, be before the enemy in occupying the raised and sunny spots, and carefully guard your line of supplies. Then you will be able to fight with advantage.