Bearings

Introduction to Bearings

  • Bearings are a method of indicating angles and directions.

  • They are used in geography and travel to identify exact locations or paths.

  • A bearing is always a three-digit number, representing angles ranging from 000 to 360 degrees.

  • Always measure bearings from the North line, turning in a clockwise direction.

  • The North line is 000 of 360. Moving clockwise, the East line is 090, South is 180, and West is 270.

Using Compass for Bearings

  • When using standard compasses to measure or draw angles for bearings, always start at the North line, rotating your compass in a clockwise direction.

  • Remember to keep your compass point fixed and move the pencil point when drawing the angles.

Bearings Calculation

  • The rule of angles at a point is utilized to solve problems that involve bearings.

  • If you are asked to calculate a bearing, add or subtract the given angles to or from 360 or 000.

  • For calculating the back bearing, add or subtract 180 to the original bearing.

Compass Directions and Bearings

  • N (North) corresponds to a bearing of 000.

  • E (East) equals a bearing of 090.

  • S (South) equals a bearing of 180.

  • W (West) equals a bearing of 270.

  • Intermediate directions have corresponding bearings. E.g. NNE (North-Northeast) would have a bearing between 000 and 090.

Common Mistakes with Bearings

  • Accidentally measuring or drawing bearings anticlockwise.

  • Not giving the answer as a three-digit number – it is 050, not 50.

  • Failing to calculate the back bearing correctly.

Practice

  • Regularly practice drawing bearings, calculating angles and back bearings.

  • Attempt various types of bearing problems to improve your understanding of the topic.

  • Practice converting compass directions to bearings and vice versa.

Summary

  • Remember, bearings are always measured clockwise from North.

  • Remember to use three-digit bearings, even if it means adding a leading zero.

  • Develop a habit of drawing a diagram for bearing problems. It helps visualize the problem and makes calculations easier.