Read a bearing
- Start at north.
- Measure clockwise.
- Write as three digits.
Answer: South is 180°
📐 Geometry & Measures
Bearings
Learn bearings with a GCSE-style explanation, help guide, worked example, practice question and flashcards.
Global XP
Level 10 / 100 XP
1. Explanation
Key idea
- Bearings is part of geometry and appears often in KS3–GCSE maths.
- Bearings are three-figure angles measured clockwise from north.
- Use the worked model, help guide, interactive question and flashcards to practise bearings until the steps feel automatic.
Real-life examples
- Shopping, sport, travel, science, design and everyday decisions all use this skill.
2. Visual
Bearings learning map
Understand the key idea → follow the help guide → practise a question → check your method → build speed with flashcards.
3. Help guide
How to tackle Bearings
- Learn the rule: Bearings are three-figure angles measured clockwise from north.
- Worked model: Start at north. Measure clockwise. Write as three digits.
- Try the interactive question without looking at the answer first.
- Use the flashcards to test the rule, the method and a common check.
4. Worked examples
Step-by-step working
5. Interactive questions
Try it yourself
A bearing points due east. What is its three-figure bearing?
6. Flashcards
Master quick recall
Flip each card, then choose whether you know it or need more practice.
0 mastered
FrontRule for Bearings
BackBearings are three-figure angles measured clockwise from north.
FrontExample answer: A bearing points due east. What is its three-figure bearing?
BackEast is a quarter turn clockwise from north, so the bearing is 090°.
FrontCommon check for Bearings
BackCheck units/notation, compare with an estimate, and make sure the answer matches the question.
7. Finish
Complete this topic
When you have read the examples, tried the question and reviewed flashcards, claim your topic completion XP.