“Thus it is that in war the victorious strategist only seeks battle after the victory is won, whereas he who is destined to defeat first fights and afterwards looks for victory.”

“Victorious warriors win first and then go to war, while defeated warriors go to war first and then seek to win”

“first lay plans which will ensure victory, and then lead your army to battle;  if you will not begin with stratagem but rely on brute strength alone, victory will no longer be assured”

“The greatest victory is that which requires no battle.”

“To win one hundred victories in one hundred battles is not the acme of skill. To subdue the enemy without fighting is the acme of skill.”

“do many calculations lead to victory, and few calculations to defeat”

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