Even though you are competent, appear to be incompetent. When far away, we must make him believe we are near. Conceal your dispositions, and your condition will remain secret, which leads to victory; Though effective, appear to be ineffective. The general who loses makes but few calculations beforehand.
Hence, when we are able to attack, we must seem unable; Show your dispositions, and your condition will become patent, which leads to defeat. If you know the enemy and know yourself you need not fear the results of a hundred battles. A wise general makes a point of foraging of the enemy. Though effective, appear to be ineffective. 932 quotes from sun tzu: Quote by sun tzu back to top. The general who wins the battle makes many calculations in his temple before the battle is fought.