What is boost? And how to use/monitor it?

[MadTommy]

Being new to WWII flight sims, boost has me a little confused.

It would appear to be manifold pressure, is this correct?

I notice it increases as the prop pitch is decreased... it would seem the boost pressure reduces as engine strain increases.. which seems counter-intuitive to me.

Can anyone enlighten me on what it is and how it is used in relation to good engine management.

Thanks.

EDIT: oh yeah.. what is boost cut out and low boost cut out?? (I think i have those terms correct)