The first step to using a compass is to learn how to read and use a compass. There are many types of compasses. To get you started with a compass well use a basic flat base compass. It has a rectangular base, a rotating dial, and housing made of clear plastic.
1. Find the directional signs, north, south, east and west on the compass' dial. North is the most important direction to help you orient yourself. Now find the orienting arrow, magnetic needle, and the direction of travel arrow on your compass.
2. Notice that the magnetic needle always points naturally towards the earth's magnetic north pole unless there is any metal close to it. Be careful to keep your compass away things like a zipper, underwater in a bra etc. because it can affect the magnetic needle and lead you in the wrong direction.
3. Hold the compass level in the palm of your hand near your chest, with the direction arrow facing away from the body.
4. Turn the housing so the N (North) is lined up with the red end of the magnetic needle.
5. Turn the housing so the E (East) is lined up with the direction of travel arrow. Now you're ready to use the compass.
Using a compass
Now that you know the parts of the compass let's try a little exercise to learn the basics.
Using four markers, stones, twigs, rocks or cones anything you can carry will work. Put them in your pocket or pack.
Place a marker where you are standing, this is your starting point.
Turn the housing on the compass so that N (North) lines up with the direction arrow.
Hold the compass level in the palm of your hand, chest high, with the direction arrow facing away from your body.
Turn your whole body, including your feet, until the red magnetic needle lines up with the orienting arrow on the dial.
Look around and locate a landmark, like a rock, tree or sign which is exactly ahead of you in the distance. Take six steps toward that spot without looking at the compass. Stop. Place a marker here.
Turn the housing on the compass so that W (west) lines up with the direction arrow. Repeat steps 3, 4, and 5.
Turn the housing on the compass so that S (south) lines up with the direction arrow. Repeat steps 3, 4, and 5.
Turn the dial on the compass so that E (east) lines up with the direction arrow.
Repeat steps 3, 4, and 5.
You should return to your first marker.
You should have made a square.
Now repeat the activity using the following degrees: 360, 90, 180, 270. This should also make the same square.
Congratulations, you now know how to use a compass.
--Adapted from the Wisconsin Explorer program, Wisconsin Dept. of Natural Resources
