Final answer:
A personal watercraft steers by redirecting its water jet to change direction.
Step-by-step explanation:
When a personal watercraft is idling, it steers by redirecting the jet of water generated by its propulsion system. This redirection is achieved by adjusting the angle of the nozzle at the rear of the watercraft. By changing the direction of the jet of water, the watercraft can steer left or right.
For example, if the watercraft wants to turn left, it will redirect the jet of water slightly to the right. The reaction force from the water jet on the watercraft will push it to the left, causing it to turn.
Conversely, if the watercraft wants to turn right, it will redirect the jet of water slightly to the left.