Compass Guide
How to Read a Compass
A compass looks simple, but once you know what the dial, degree value, and cardinal labels mean, it becomes much easier to use with confidence.
1. Start with the four main directions
The basic labels are North, East, South, and West. On this page, the red arrow points upward, while the dial beneath it rotates to show where north is relative to your phone.
If the letter for north lines up with the red arrow, your phone is facing north. If east moves to the top, you are facing east.
2. Use the degree value for precision
A compass also shows direction in degrees from 0 to 359. North is around 0 or 360 degrees, East is 90 degrees, South is 180 degrees, and West is 270 degrees.
Degrees are useful when you want more detail than simple labels like north or west.
3. Read the in-between directions
Directions between the main points are northeast, southeast, southwest, and northwest. These help when your heading sits between two major directions.
4. Keep your phone flat
Compass readings are usually more stable when the phone is held as flat and level as possible. Magnetic interference, metal surfaces, and cases with magnets can reduce accuracy.
5. Calibrate if the reading feels wrong
If the compass feels off, move the phone in a figure-eight motion and step away from speakers, laptops, or metal objects. That often helps the sensor recover a more accurate heading.