When the common soldiers are too strong and their officers too weak, the result is insubordination. When the officers are too strong and the common soldiers too weak, the result is collapse.

To a surrounded enemy, you must leave a way of escape.

Maneuvering with an army is advantageous; with an undisciplined multitude, most dangerous.

Those who are victorious plan effectively and change decisively. They are like a great river that maintains its course but adjusts its flow.

To ... not prepare is the greatest of crimes; to be prepared beforehand for any contingency is the greatest of virtues.

All warfare is based on deception. Therefore, when capable, feign incapacity; when active, inactivity. When near, make it appear that you are far away; when far away, that you are to lure him; feign disorder and strike him. When he concentrates, prepare against him; where he is strong, avoid him. Anger his general and confuse him. Pretend inferiority and encourage his arrogance.

To persuade your enemy to (retreat) before the fight is to defeat them even before the battle begins. An enemy made ally is no longer an enemy.