Invincibility depends on one's self; the enemy's vulnerability on him.

Rapidity is the essence of war: take advantage of the enemy's unreadiness, make your way by unexpected routes, and attack unguarded spots.

Should the enemy strengthen his van, he will weaken his rear; should he strengthen his rear, he will weaken his van; should he strengthen his left, he will weaken his right; should he strengthen his right, he will weaken his left. If he sends reinforcements everywhere, he will everywhere be weak.

Ground which can be freely traversed by both sides is called accessible.

The art of giving orders is not to try to rectify the minor blunders and not to be swayed by petty doubts.

When one treats people with benevolence, justice and righteousness, and reposes confidence in them, the army will be united in mind and all will be happy to serve their leaders.

Therefore the good fighter will be terrible in his onset, and prompt in his decision.

Engage people with what they expect; it is what they are able to discern and confirms their projections. It settles them into predictable patterns of response, occupying their minds while you wait for the extraordinary moment - that which they cannot anticipate.

When the position is such that neither side will gain by making the first move, it is called temporising ground.