Therefore, to estimate the enemy situation and to calculate distances and the degree of difficulty of the terrain so as to control victory are virtues of the superior general.

So in war, the way is to avoid what is strong, and strike at what is weak.

Pretend to be weak, so your enemy may grow arrogant.

When the enemy is relaxed, make them toil. When full, starve them. When settled, make them move.

Do not press an enemy at bay. Prince Fu Ch'ai said: "Wild beasts, when at bay, fight desperately. How much more is this true of men! If they know there is no alternative, they will fight to the death.

Thus the expert in battle moves the enemy, and is not moved by him.

To plan secretly, to move surreptitiously, to foil the enemy's intentions and balk his schemes, so that at last the day may be won without shedding a drop of blood.