Have you ever wondered how pilots flying in the clouds or ships in the middle of the ocean know exactly which way to go? They use bearings! A Compass Direction and Bearing Calculator is the digital version of the tool explorers have used for centuries. In mathematics and navigation, a “bearing” is a specific way to measure direction using degrees.

The Three Golden Rules

• Start at North: Bearings are always measured starting from the North line (0°).
• Go Clockwise: You always measure the angle turning to the right (clockwise).
• Three Digits: Bearings are usually written with three figures. So, East is not just 90°, it is 090°.

Using a Compass Direction and Bearing Calculator helps clarify the relationship between standard directions (like Northeast) and their precise degree values. For example, Northeast is exactly halfway between North (000°) and East (090°), making it 045°. This tool visualizes that slice of the circle perfectly.

One of the most useful features of our Compass Direction and Bearing Calculator is finding the “Back Bearing.” Imagine you walk from Point A to Point B on a bearing of 060°. To get home, you have to turn around and walk the exact opposite way. This return direction is the back bearing.