There are many different types of braid styles - one of the most common African braids types is the Country Plait. This kind of braiding is done by dividing hair into sections and then braiding each section separately. These braids are done close to the scalp, giving the hair a neat and sleek look.
Another braid type is the Cornrow, which is a slight variation of the Country Plait. Then there is the simplistic single braid where you take a small section of the hair very close to the scalp and braid it until you reach the end. All of these braided hairstyles can be done in a variety of widths, so if you choose to take a thinner width, you will require more braids and of course, more time.
If you really want to learn advanced hair braid styles, you need to get a braiding instructional video.