"Points of sail" refers to the different angles at which a sailing vessel can travel relative to the wind direction. These angles determine how effectively a sailboat can harness the wind for propulsion. The main points of sail include close-hauled, beam reach, broad reach, and running, each representing a specific relationship between the wind and the boat's course. Understanding points of sail is essential for sailors to navigate efficiently. When sailing close-hauled, the boat sails as directly into the wind as possible, while a beam reach allows for maximum speed with the wind coming from the side. Each point of sail requires different sail adjustments to optimize performance.