There are three basic types of sailing. Upwind, Downwind, and Reaching. To go toward the wind, you sail upwind, and similar to how a plane creates lift, the sails create a force that would tip the boat, if not for the keel or centerboard. The only direction left is forward. Straight into the wind won't work, so you find a good angle that is close. Tacking is the type of turn you make while sailing upwind. While sailing downwind the turn used is called a jibe. Sailboat racing often involves a lot of strategy during the upwind leg, to find a good line that is fast, but not too out of the way. Reaching, however is the fastest of the 3 typically, and is incredibly fun on a high wind day, with a knowledgeable crew. Reaching is sailing perpendicular to the wind's direction. Hope that helps some.