He Will Win Who Knows When To Fight And When Not

He who is prudent and lies in wait for an enemy who is not, will be victorious.

who wishes to fight must first count the cost

Move not unless you see an advantage; use not your troops unless there is something to be gained; fight not unless the position is critical.

The wise warrior avoids the battle.

If you know the enemy and know yourself, you need not fear the result of a hundred battles. If you know yourself but not the enemy, for every victory gained you will also suffer a defeat. If you know neither the enemy nor yourself, you will succumb in every battle.

If your enemy is secure at all points, be prepared for him. If he is in superior strength, evade him. If your opponent is temperamental, seek to irritate him. Pretend to be weak, that he may grow arrogant. If he is taking his ease, give him no rest. If his forces are united, separate them. If sovereign and subject are in accord, put division between them. Attack him where he is unprepared, appear where you are not expected .