Four Link Suspension, how does it work?

Since suspension setup in these drag cars we run is what I consider to be voodoo magic can someone give me a Four Link for Dummies class? I was just beginning to gain a basic understanding of the ladder bar set up on the Dart I had previous, and now I have this Arrow with a four link set up. I hear things like 'pre-load' and 'instant center' and other terms like that and I just don't know what it means. I have no understanding of what moving the upper arms up or down, or moving the lower arms up or down does. I haven't touched a thing on the suspension of this car except to loosen or tighten the front shocks a couple of clicks per the recommendation of the previous owner as he told me that's all I'd ever need to do but I would like to have a working knowledge of what the four link does. Can anyone help?
Check out this guys Youtube channel.... he has sooo much great info on every suspension type and is easy to follow..