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.

Weak leadership can wreck the soundest strategy; forceful execution of even a poor plan can often bring victory.

Rely not on the likelihood of the enemy's not coming, but on our own readiness to receive him

Where the army is, prices are high; when prices rise the wealth of the people is exhausted.

Hence the saying: The enlightened ruler lays his plans well ahead; the good general cultivates his resources.

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.

Go into emptiness, strike voids, bypass what he defends hit him where he does not expect you.