IGCSE Maths / Geometric constructions
Three-figure bearings revision notes
Edexcel International GCSE Maths (4MA1), chapter 13: Geometric constructions, specification point 4.4d. Free lesson.
Watch the video lesson · IGCSE Maths past papers
A bearing gives the direction of one place from another, measured clockwise from north. Bearings are used to describe directions precisely, so you need to measure from the correct north line and write every answer with three figures.
How to measure and write a bearing
A bearing is the direction of one place from another. Measure the angle in degrees, starting at north and turning clockwise until you face the place. Always write the answer using three figures. For example, write 72° as 072°. A bearing is measured at the starting place, using that place's own north line.
How to read bearings from one place
If several places are shown from A, use the same starting point and north line for each bearing. Turn clockwise from north to the direction you want. Some directions lie more than halfway round, so the clockwise turn is the longer way. Bearings run from 000° to 360°, not just from 0° to 180°. A direction west of north can have a bearing greater than 180°.
How to add an angle to a bearing
You can add an angle to a given bearing when both angles are measured at the same place from the same north line. The given bearing takes you from north to the first direction. The extra angle carries on from that direction to the next one. Check that both angles are measured at the same starting point before adding them.
How to avoid losing the format mark
A correct angle is not always a correctly written bearing. Add zeros at the front whenever needed to make three figures. Write 62° as 062°, not 62°. Write 7° as 007°.