Three military prerequisites are stressed: grasping rival plots, terrain and local guides. A dominant army relies on its own strength, uses special rewards, drives troops into deadly straits, feints compliance and concentrates forces to slay enemy generals far away.
It defines nine battlefield grounds and tailored tactics for each, such as forming alliances on intersecting ground and securing provisions deep in enemy territory. It also explains soldiers’ natural instincts: resisting when encircled and fighting desperately under pressure.
Generals stay calm and conceal all battle plans to confuse troops. Cut off soldiers’ retreat to push them into combat. Commanders must master nine terrains, tactical flexibility and soldiers’ mental states to lead armies into danger.
A capable general commands troops like the mountain serpent Shuairan, whose head and tail coordinate instantly. Shared danger unites foes, while smart governance rather than rigid restraints ensures the whole army acts as one.
Troops grow united when marching deep into enemy lands. Cut off retreat to stir desperate bravery. Sustain soldiers, hide stratagems, ban doubts and superstitions; trapped troops will fight fearlessly without strict commands.
Skilled generals split enemy forces to break their coordination. Act only when beneficial. Against organized large foes, seize their critical assets first, launching swift surprise assaults on unprepared routes and vulnerable spots.
Sun Tzu defines nine battlefield grounds based on location and terrain, each with exclusive tactics. Rules cover combat, marching, alliances, supplies and stratagems; generals must adopt matching strategies for each ground type to survive and prevail.
Partial knowledge of troops, foes or terrain only yields half chances of victory. Skilled commanders stay clear and flexible. Full victory demands knowing oneself, enemies, weather and land conditions thoroughly.
Generals earn soldiers’ loyalty by treating them tenderly like kids, making troops willing to face deadly risks. However, blind indulgence without strict discipline spoils soldiers, rendering the army unfit for combat.