Therefore the skillful leader subdues the enemy's troops without any fighting; he captures their cities without laying siege to them; he overthrows their kingdom without lengthy operations in the field.

Hence in the wise leader's plans, considerations of advantage and of disadvantage will be blended together.

By method and discipline are to be understood the marshaling of the army in its proper subdivisions, the graduations of rank among the officers, the maintenance of roads by which supplies may reach the army, and the control of military expenditure.

Whoever is first in the field and awaits the coming of the enemy, will be fresh for the fight; whoever is second in the field and has to hasten to battle will arrive exhausted.

First, measurement; second, quantity; third, calculation; fourth, comparison; and fifth, victory.

If words of command are not clear and distinct, if orders are not thoroughly understood, then the general is to blame.

Convince your enemy that he will gain very little by attacking you; this will diminish his enthusiasm.