How to Convert Between Compass & Cardinal Directions

A compass uses a magnetic needle that aligns with the magnetic north pole and a dial to indicate a bearing -- the direction that you point the compass. Compasses give readings in degrees running from zero to 360. People understand the cardinal directions, which are north, south, east and west, better than directions given in degrees. For example, saying "Head west" instead of "Head with a bearing of 270 degrees" takes less time, and most people will understand the former. You can simply memorize the number of degrees in a cardinal direction to covert from one to the other.

Instructions

    • 1

      Find north at zero or 360 degrees. On a compass, the red end of the magnetic needle always points to the magnetic north pole.

    • 2

      Find south at 180 degrees. On a compass, the white end of the magnetic needle always points south.

    • 3

      Memorize 270 degrees as west.

    • 4

      Convert a bearing of 90 degrees to east.