A compass is a tool used to navigate. The principle of how a compass works is quite simple. A magnetic compass consists of a small, lightweight magnet balanced on a nearly frictionless pivot point. The magnet is generally called a needle. One end of the needle is often marked “N,” for north, or colored in some way to indicate that it points toward north. The needles end is magnetic and detects magnetic fields. When “detected” the needle points in the direction of the magnetic source. So our needle points north because that is where the Earth’s Magnetic pole is located.
So while we are navigating across terrain and observe the compass we are able to keep a bearing on our direction of movement. Simple enough I suppose.
There is another type of compass that is based on the same principles, just different elements. It is one that you build yourself, a ‘DYI’ type thing, and it takes a bit longer than a weekend to build. In this design you are the one that determines North by defining your own source for the pole.
If you have already built one of these compasses I am certain that you will agree with me when I say it is always nice to dust the compass off from time to time and verify our alignment with the arrow on it. If this is your first build hopefully you will have a chance to use it a great deal when crafted.