计利以听，乃为之势，以佐其外。

While heading the profit of my counsel, avail yourself also of any helpful circumstances over and beyond the ordinary rules.

势者，因利而制权也。

According as circumstances are favorable, one should modify one's plans.

兵者，诡道也。

All warfare is based on deception.

故能而示之不能，用而示之不用，近而示之远，远而示之近。

Hence, when able to attack, we must seem unable; when using our forces, we must seem inactive; when we are near, we must make the enemy believe we are far away; when far away, we must make him believe we are near.

利而诱之，乱而取之，

Hold out baits to entice the enemy. Feign disorder, and crush him.

实而备之，强而避之，

If he is secure at all points, be prepared for him. If he is in superior strength, evade him.

怒而挠之，卑而骄之，

If your opponent is of choleric temper, seek to irritate him. Pretend to be weak, that he may grow arrogant.

佚而劳之，亲而离之，

If he is taking his ease, give him no rest. If his forces are united, separate them.

攻其无备，出其不意。

Attack him where he is unprepared, appear where you are not expected.

此兵家之胜，不可先传也。

These military devices, leading to victory, must not be divulged beforehand.

夫未战而庙算胜者，得算多也；未战而庙算不胜者，得算少也。多算胜少算，而况于无算乎！吾以此观之，胜负见矣。

Now the general who wins a battle makes many calculations in his temple where the battle is fought. The general who loses a battle makes but few calculations beforehand. Thus do many calculations lead to victory, and few calculations to defeat: how much more no calculation at all! It is by attention to this point that I can foresee who is likely to win or lose.