Post-Race Newbie Lesson

I went out racing last night in the strongest wind yet. 2 races and I didn't do well (exaggeration). But, a fellow sailor gave me some helpful tips that I need to remember:

1. Beating, keep sail trimmed & tighten the vang as much as possible (I thought it was tight, but clearly not.) He said you have to see a flat roach area and a bent mast.
2. Keep everything else tight.
3. Buy some tell tales! (I don't have any, so I guess that's the next purchase.)

I find the hardest part of racing so far is beating to the windward mark. Tactically, I still seem to be unable to get a proper line.