Starting
Here is a very simple method for determining the favored end of the line:
1). For now, assume an upwind start
2). Somewhere near the start line, go fully head to wind-hold it there long enough for the compass to settle down and note the TRUE wind direction.
3). Place the boat ON the start line, lining yourself up so one end is directly ahead and one end direcetly astern (or you could sail at the line from outside and line up the comitte boat and the far end so that you are aiming directly parallel to the line). Note the heading of the line. Write down the heading you see, AND the reciprocal. Whichever of the 2 numbers is LESS than 90 degrees from the WIND DIRECTION is the favored end.
4). For a downwind start, whichever end is MORE than 90 degrees is favored.
5). For a reaching start, whichever end is less than 90 degrees from the HEADING to the first mark.
Feel free to contact me for more info.
Good sailing!