Strategy

The Art of War: 6 key ideas

by Sun Tzu

The core ideas of The Art of War, each in under a minute, written in our own words. Want the full depth? Get the book.

1. IDEA 1 OF 6

   Win without fighting

   The highest skill is to defeat the opponent's strategy before battle.

   Fighting is costly even when you win.

2. IDEA 2 OF 6

   Know yourself and your rival

   If you know both, you need not fear a hundred battles.

   Know only yourself, and for every victory you'll suffer a defeat.

3. IDEA 3 OF 6

   All warfare is deception

   When able, appear unable; when near, appear far.

   Shape what the opponent believes.

4. IDEA 4 OF 6

   Strike where they are weak

   Avoid strength and attack weakness, like water flowing to the low ground.

5. IDEA 5 OF 6

   Speed and momentum

   Act quickly and use the force of circumstances, like a boulder rolling downhill.

6. IDEA 6 OF 6

   Choose your ground

   Terrain and conditions decide many outcomes.

   Pick where and when you engage.