Generally in war the best policy is to take a state intact; to ruin it is inferior to this.
When you surround an army, leave an outlet free. Do not press a desperate foe too hard.
The King is only fond of words, and cannot translate them into deeds.
Birds rising in flight is a sign that the enemy is lying in ambush; when the wild animals are startled and flee he is trying to take you unaware.
One who sets the entire army in motion to chase an advantage will not attain it.
Carefully study the well-being of your men, and do not overtax them. Concentrate your energy and hoard your strength. Keep your army continually on the move, and devise unfathomable plans.