Thus the highest form of generalship is to balk the enemy's plans, the next best is to prevent the junction of the enemy's forces, the next in order is to attack the enemy's army in the field, and the worst policy of all is to besiege walled cities.

In the practical art of war, the best thing of all is to take the enemy's country whole and intact; to shatter and destroy it is not so good.

To see victory only when it is within the ken of the common herd is not the acme of excellence.

Appear weak when you are strong, and strong when you are weak.

Winning Strategists are certain of triumph before seeking a challenge. Losing Strategists are certain to challenge before seeking a triumph.

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

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